Healthy Snack No Bake Granola Bars

Name: Healthy Snack No Bake Granola Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew); 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 cup mixed nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, sunflower seeds); 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins); 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Freshly Wholesome

I love making these Healthy Snack No Bake Granola Bars because they are so quick and easy to prepare! In just a few minutes, I can whip up a batch of delicious, nutritious snacks that keep me fueled throughout the day. These bars are not only wholesome but also customizable, letting me add my favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. They are perfect for a busy lifestyle, and I can even wrap them for a grab-and-go option when I’m in a rush. You’ll find that once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home too!

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-02-01T23:29:35.894Z

Creating the perfect no-bake granola bar was a fun culinary adventure for me. I experimented with different combinations of nuts and sweeteners until I struck the right balance. The method really shines because it avoids using any added sugars or unnecessary ingredients, relying on the natural sweetness of honey and fruits instead. One tip that I learned is to let the mixture chill in the fridge for a bit before cutting them into bars, as it makes them easier to slice and keeps them from crumbling.

Since these bars are highly customizable, I often change up the add-ins based on what I have on hand. Whether it’s peanut butter, chocolate chips, or a variety of nuts, each variation is a delightful surprise! I've enjoyed making these with my kids, and they love choosing their favorite ingredients to mix in. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with wholesome ingredients that fuel your body.
No baking required – perfect for a quick snack.
Easily customizable to suit your taste and diet.

      

Understanding Your Ingredients

The choice of nut butter in these granola bars plays a crucial role in both texture and flavor. Peanut butter offers a rich, nutty taste, while almond or cashew butter provides a milder, creamier profile. For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter is an excellent alternative that maintains the bars' integrity. Make sure to use a smooth nut butter without added sugars or oils to ensure the bars hold together well when pressed into the dish.

Using a combination of rolled oats and mixed nuts not only adds nutritional value but also creates a delightful texture. The rolled oats become chewy, while the nuts introduce a satisfying crunch. If you're looking to vary the flavor and texture, consider adding puffed rice or quinoa for an interesting twist. Just keep in mind the overall balance of dry and wet ingredients when making substitutions to ensure the bars bind properly.

Perfecting Your Technique

When mixing the ingredients, take care to ensure everything is thoroughly combined. The nut butter and sweetener should coat the oats and nuts completely, which helps prevent the bars from crumbling later. If your mixture feels too dry, add a splash more honey or maple syrup; if it’s too sticky, a bit of rolled oats can help achieve the right consistency.

Pressing the mixture into the baking dish is also vital. Use a firm hand or the back of a measuring cup to create an even layer. This ensures the bars are compact and slice cleanly after being refrigerated. If the mixture starts to stick to your hands, a light coating of cooking spray can make this process much easier.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Granola Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 cup mixed nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, sunflower seeds)
1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins)
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all ingredients together until well combined. Press firmly into a lined baking dish.

Instructions

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and any additional ingredients like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Press into the Dish

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

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour. Once firm, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper and cut into desired pieces.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different nut butters and add-ins to create your perfect granola bar. For a crunchier texture, lightly toast the oats before mixing them into the batter.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once cut, these granola bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. However, for a longer shelf life, I recommend refrigerating them, where they can last for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them even longer, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap each bar individually in wax paper or plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen granola bar, simply take one out, and let it thaw for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This not only brings back the texture but also enhances the flavor as the ingredients come to life again.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to tailor these granola bars to your taste. For example, replacing the dried cranberries with diced dried apricots or adding chia seeds for an extra health boost can lead to delightful new flavors. If you’re a chocolate lover, consider using dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a richer taste.

For a fun twist, you could also add spices like cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Mixing in a tablespoon of protein powder can make these bars an even better post-workout snack, adding an extra nutritional punch without altering the delicious flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these granola bars vegan?

Yes! Simply use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your nut butter is vegan-friendly.

→ How long do these bars last?

They can last about a week in the fridge, but I recommend consuming them within a few days for the best taste and texture.

→ Can I freeze the granola bars?

Absolutely! You can wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

→ What can I substitute for oats?

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa flakes or puffed rice can be a good substitute for rolled oats.