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 (peanut, almond, or cashew); 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts; 1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots); 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Simple Planning

I love making these Healthy Snack No Bake Granola Bars when I need a quick and nutritious pick-me-up. They are effortless to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and honey. Not only do they satisfy my sweet tooth, but they also provide sustained energy throughout the day. I appreciate that I can customize them with my favorite mix-ins, making every batch unique. Plus, there’s no oven required, so cleanup is a breeze!

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:45:36.183Z

When I first set out to create these granola bars, I wanted something that not only tasted good but also packed a nutritional punch. After several trials, I discovered that combining oats with nut butter and honey creates the ideal texture and sweetness. I particularly love adding dark chocolate chips for a little indulgence without going overboard.

One tip I've learned is to press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together once they set. Using parchment paper makes removing them a breeze, and I like to slice them into different sizes so I have options for snacks or breakfast on the go!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients that keep you fueled
No baking required – quick and easy to prepare
Customizable with your favorite fruits and nuts

      

The Benefits of Using Nut Butter

Nut butter is a crucial ingredient in these granola bars, providing a creamy texture and a rich flavor. It acts as the primary binder, helping to keep all the ingredients together. When selecting nut butter, opt for natural varieties without added sugars or oils for a healthier option. Peanut, almond, and cashew butters each lend their unique taste and nutritional value, enriching your bars with protein and healthy fats.

Beyond being a binder, nut butter also contributes a depth of flavor and helps fuel your day. I prefer almond butter for its slightly sweet and nutty profile, but you can experiment with different types. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seed butter is an excellent substitution that works just as well.

Choosing the Right Mix-Ins

One of the highlights of making these granola bars is the ability to customize them with your favorite mix-ins. The dried fruits, like raisins, cranberries, or apricots, add a natural sweetness while delivering vitamins and fiber. I recommend chopping larger fruits for a more even distribution throughout the bars. If you're watching your sugar intake, consider using unsweetened dried fruits or reducing the amount of honey or syrup.

Chopped mixed nuts not only add crunch but also introduce more healthy fats and proteins, making these bars satisfying. You can vary the nuts you use based on your preference. Just remember to toast them lightly for extra flavor before mixing, if you choose to do so. This process can elevate the overall taste of your granola bars, giving them an irresistible nutty aroma and deeper flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to start making your granola 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 mixed nuts
1/2 cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or apricots)
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Once you've a gathered your ingredients, you are ready to mix everything for the bars!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to whip up your no-bake granola bars.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, nut butter, honey, chopped nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Press into Pan

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture to the dish and press it down firmly into an even layer.

Chill and Cut

Refrigerate the pressed mixture for at least 1 hour until it firms up. Once chilled, lift the granola bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into desired sizes.

Store and Enjoy

Store the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy them as a snack or breakfast on the go!

Now you're ready to enjoy your homemade granola bars!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or swap out the nut butter for your favorite variety.

Storage Tips

To store your healthy granola bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain their freshness and chewiness for up to a week. If you prefer them to be slightly firmer, consider storing them in the freezer instead. Just wrap each bar tightly in parchment paper before freezing, which allows for easy grabbing when you need a snack on the go.

If you choose to freeze them, these granola bars can last up to a month. To enjoy, simply take them out and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, they regain their soft texture and are perfect for a quick energy boost.

Scaling Up the Recipe

This granola bar recipe is easily scalable for larger batches. If you find yourself reaching for them frequently or want to share with friends, simply double or triple the ingredients. Just ensure that you have a larger mixing bowl and a bigger baking dish or divide the mixture among two smaller pans.

Keep in mind that when scaling up, the chilling time may vary slightly. I recommend checking the consistency after an hour. If the mixture is still too soft, give it an additional 30 minutes in the refrigerator until it firms up properly before cutting into bars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Using quick oats will change the texture slightly, but it can still work. The bars may be a bit softer.

→ How do I store the granola bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Yes! You can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.

→ What nuts can I add?

You can add any nuts you like, such as almonds, walnuts, or pistachios. Just ensure they are chopped small.