Quick & Easy No-Bake Granola Bars Recipe

These no-bake granola bars are a convenient and healthy snack option perfect for busy lifestyles. Made with oats, honey, and your choice of nuts and dried fruits, they provide a satisfying energy boost.

The recipe is simple and requires no baking, making it easy to prepare in just a few minutes. Customize with your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch.

Wholesome Ingredients for Granola Bars

Creating no-bake granola bars begins with selecting quality ingredients. The foundation of these bars is rolled oats, which provide a hearty texture and essential fiber.

Nut butter, such as peanut, almond, or cashew, adds creaminess and healthy fats, making the bars satisfying and nutritious.

Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup not only bind the mixture but also contribute a delightful sweetness.

To enhance the flavor and texture, chopped nuts and dried fruits can be added. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans offer crunch, while raisins, cranberries, or apricots add a chewy element.

For a touch of indulgence, chocolate chips can be sprinkled on top, creating a perfect balance between health and treat.

Quick Preparation Steps

Preparing these granola bars is a straightforward process that requires minimal time.

Start by lining an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal later.

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nut butter, honey, and your choice of nuts and dried fruits.

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Next, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer.

Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow it to set properly.

Setting and Cutting the Bars

Once the mixture has chilled and firmed up, it’s time to cut the bars.

Lift the set mixture out of the pan using the overhanging parchment paper.

Using a sharp knife, cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size.

These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerated for extended freshness.

Customizing Your Granola Bars

The beauty of these granola bars lies in their versatility.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits to suit your taste.

For a protein boost, consider adding seeds like chia or flaxseed.

Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey or maple syrup, or even substituting with agave nectar.

With endless possibilities, each batch can be a unique creation tailored to your preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

No-bake granola bars are not just a snack; they are perfect for various occasions.

Pack them for school lunches, take them on hikes, or enjoy them as a quick breakfast option.

They also make a great treat for gatherings, offering a healthier alternative to traditional desserts.

With their appealing appearance and wholesome ingredients, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Health Benefits of Granola Bars

These homemade granola bars are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits.

The combination of oats, nuts, and dried fruits provides a good source of energy, making them ideal for busy days.

They are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

The healthy fats from the nut butter and nuts support heart health, while the natural sugars from honey and fruits offer a quick energy boost.

Enjoying these bars can be a smart choice for maintaining a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.

Simple No-Bake Granola Bars Recipe

These granola bars are packed with wholesome ingredients, offering a chewy texture and delicious flavor. The recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and yields approximately 12 bars.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1/2 cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nut butter, honey, chopped nuts, dried fruits, chocolate chips (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or your hands.
4. Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow it to set.
5. Cut into Bars: Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into bars or squares of your desired size.
6. Store: Keep the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories: 180kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 22g