Healthy Snack No Bake Granola Bars

Name: Healthy Snack No Bake Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut); 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts); 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional); 1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots, optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt

I love making these Healthy No Bake Granola Bars because they’re not only easy to whip up, but they also make for such a satisfying snack. With no baking required, I can prepare them quickly and have a nutritious treat ready to go anytime. Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and a hint of honey, they’re a perfect on-the-go option. Plus, I can customize them with my favorite add-ins like dried fruits or chocolate chips for a personal touch.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:01:35.764Z

Creating these granola bars was an enjoyable experience that allowed me to get creative in the kitchen. I started with a base of rolled oats and added almonds and peanuts for crunch. To bind it all together, I used honey and peanut butter, which not only sticks well but enhances the flavor significantly. I found that letting them chill in the fridge helps them firm up nicely.

What truly sets these bars apart is their versatility. You can mix and match ingredients based on your preference or what's in your pantry. During my last batch, I added dark chocolate chips and a sprinkle of cinnamon, and the results were fantastic. These bars are not just a healthy option; they are downright delicious!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Wholesome ingredients that fuel your day
Quick and easy to prepare without any baking
Customizable with your favorite mix-ins

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of rolled oats and nut butter is essential in creating the chewy texture of these granola bars. Rolled oats not only provide a sturdy base but also offer a great source of fiber, which keeps you feeling full. When selecting a nut butter, look for one that has minimal added sugars or oils; natural varieties generally provide a more wholesome flavor. I've found that almond butter lends a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the honey or maple syrup used in the recipe.

Adding nuts not only enhances the flavor but also contributes important nutrients, including healthy fats and protein. For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative that can be used in place of nut butter. Similarly, if you wish to eliminate all allergens, consider omitting the nuts altogether and increasing the oats slightly to maintain the same texture.

Perfecting Your Technique

When pressing the mixture into the baking dish, it's crucial to ensure it’s packed tightly; this step helps the bars maintain their shape when cut. If you find that the mixture is too crumbly or doesn't hold together well, you can add an extra tablespoon of honey or nut butter to help bind it more effectively. A firm, even layer should be achieved to ensure uniform cutting later on.

After refrigerating the mixture for at least one hour, removing it from the pan can sometimes be tricky. To make this easier, lifting the parchment paper can provide leverage. If the bars are still reluctant to come out, score them lightly with a knife before chilling. Additionally, cutting with a sharp knife rather than a dull one will help achieve cleaner edges.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delightful bars:

Granola Bar Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut)
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
1/4 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots, optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

Once you have everything, you're ready to make your granola bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your no-bake granola bars:

Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, nuts, and dried fruit (if using). In a separate bowl, mix the nut butter, honey, vanilla, and salt until well combined. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated.

Press into a Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the granola mixture to the dish and press it down firmly with your hands or a spatula to create an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the granola mixture for at least 1 hour to firm up. Once set, remove from the dish and cut into bars. Enjoy!

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or sweeteners to find your perfect flavor combination!

Storage and Shelf Life

These no-bake granola bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature. However, for prolonged freshness, refrigerate them; they'll last up to two weeks if stored properly. If you're concerned about them becoming too hard in the fridge, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap to preserve its chewiness.

For extended storage, these bars can also be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, individually wrap the bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you're ready to enjoy a bar, simply let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Creative Variations

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! Besides the chocolate chips and dried fruit, consider adding coconut flakes or chia seeds for added texture and nutrition. Toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds can also provide a satisfying crunch. Remember, if you decide to add more add-ins, you may need to slightly adjust the wet ingredients to maintain the right consistency.

If you're looking to lower the sugar content, you can skip the honey altogether and replace it with unsweetened applesauce or a ripe mashed banana. These substitutes may alter the flavor slightly but can add natural sweetness with fewer calories. I've tried using mashed banana, and it gives the bars a lovely moist texture and a hint of fruitiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, rolled oats work perfectly in this recipe and provide great texture.

→ How long do these bars last?

They can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute honey with maple syrup and choose a vegan nut butter.

→ What can I add to customize my bars?

You can add ingredients like seeds, coconut flakes, or even protein powder for an extra boost!