No Bake Granola Bars

This easy no bake granola bar recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a quick snack anytime. Made with straightforward pantry ingredients and no oven required, these bars offer a chewy, nutty texture with a delicious chocolate topping. Whether you need a bite before a hike or a kid friendly lunchbox addition, they come together quickly and hold up well.

I first whipped these up when looking for a healthy snack for my kids that didn't involve baking. Now they ask for these homemade bars all the time, and I love knowing exactly what's in them.

Ingredients

• Granola: Choose a quality granola that you enjoy eating as is. The maple pecan variety adds great flavor and texture
• Dried cranberries: They lend chewiness and a touch of natural sweetness
• Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness and helps bind the bars together. Honey is a fine substitute depending on your taste
• Avocado oil: A neutral oil that helps with mixing and smoothness. Coconut oil works well too but changes the flavor slightly
• Peanut butter: Creamy or crunchy work fine. You can substitute any nut or seed butter depending on allergies or preference
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances sweetness. Feel free to switch to almond or another flavor extract
• Chocolate bark: Use your favorite chocolate for the coating, whether dark, milk, or white chocolate
• Pecans: Add crunch and a nice nutty finish to the topping. Walnuts, almonds, or pistachios can be swapped in

Instructions

Prepare the pan:

Line an 8 inch cake pan with parchment paper so the bars will lift out easily once set. Make sure the paper covers the edges well for easy removal.

Combine the ingredients for the bars:

In a large mixing bowl combine your chosen granola and dried cranberries. Pour in the avocado oil and maple syrup, then add the peanut butter. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix everything evenly until well combined and sticky enough to hold together.

Add the mixture to the pan:

Transfer the sticky granola mixture into the prepared cake pan. Use a fork or the back of a spoon to press it firmly and evenly into the pan, making sure the surface is compacted and level.

Make the topping:

Melt the chocolate bark with a little avocado oil in a saucepan over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir frequently to prevent burning and to achieve a smooth, pourable chocolate.

Finish and chill:

Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed granola mixture, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added texture and flavor. Place the pan in the freezer and chill for at least one hour or overnight until firm.

My favorite ingredient has to be the pecans on top. Their crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft base and chocolate. I remember making these bars for a family camping trip and how they were the perfect treat by the campfire, satisfying everyone from kids to adults.

Storage Tips

Store granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer freshness. If packing for hikes or school lunches, wrap individual bars in parchment for easy grab and go. Warm bars slightly before eating if you prefer a softer texture. For long term storage freeze the bars in a sealed container or bag and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Ingredient Substitutions

For gluten free versions ensure your granola is certified gluten free. Replace peanut butter with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini for nut free alternatives. Swap dried cranberries for raisins, chopped dates, or other dried fruits you love. Try adding seeds like chia, flax, or pumpkin for extra nutrition and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these bars with fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced breakfast. Bring along with trail mix and jerky on outdoor adventures for sustained energy. Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee as a sweet pick me up anytime.

These no bake granola bars are a quick, healthy snack that stores well and can be customized to taste. Enjoy them as a breakfast on the go or a post hike energy boost.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can different cereals be used in the bars?

Yes, feel free to substitute granola with your favorite cereal or muesli to customize texture and flavor.

→ What role does avocado oil play?

Avocado oil adds moisture and helps bind ingredients while maintaining a mild taste. Coconut oil can be used as an alternative.

→ How should bars be stored?

Store bars at room temperature or refrigerate for freshness. They also freeze well and thaw overnight in the fridge.

→ Are there gluten-free options available?

Yes, using gluten-free granola ensures the bars are suitable for gluten-free diets.

→ Can nut butters be replaced?

You can swap peanut butter with almond or other nut butters for allergy-friendly or flavor variations.

→ What are some serving ideas?

Enjoy bars with coffee, as part of a brunch spread, or paired with fresh fruit and yogurt.