Save Chewy, wholesome granola bars packed with oats, seeds, and a touch of honey are perfect for bulk prep and healthy snacking in lunchboxes. Easy to make and great for customizing, these bars are sure to become a household favorite.
I first started making homemade granola bars when my kids requested snacks that were both chewy and packed with flavor. Over time, I found that being able to adjust the mix-ins helped me keep things interesting, and homemade always felt healthier than storebought options.
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Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 3 cups
- Crispy rice cereal: 1 cup
- Raw sunflower seeds: 1/2 cup
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans): 1/2 cup
- Mini chocolate chips (optional): 1/2 cup
- Dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or apricots), chopped: 1/2 cup
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
- Honey or maple syrup: 1/2 cup
- Creamy peanut butter or almond butter: 1/2 cup
- Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
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Instructions
- Prepare pan and oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, rice cereal, sunflower seeds, chopped nuts, chocolate chips (if using), dried fruit, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Melt wet ingredients:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, peanut butter, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Combine mixtures:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Press and bake:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly with a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and cut:
- Let cool completely in the pan. Lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into bars.
- Store bars:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.
Save The first time I made these bars, my family gathered around the kitchen, eager to taste the warm, freshly cut squares. It has since become a regular weekend project where everyone picks their favorite mix-ins.
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Allergen Information
Contains peanuts (or tree nuts) and dairy (if butter is used). If using gluten-free oats, bars are gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety for all allergies.
Notes & Variations
Swap honey for maple syrup for vegan bars. Add shredded coconut or flaxseed for an even more nutritious snack. Pair a bar with yogurt or fresh fruit for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Nutritional Info
Each bar contains about 185 calories, 8 g total fat, 25 g carbohydrates, and 4 g protein.
Save 
Enjoy these quick homemade granola bars for a wholesome snack or a boost of energy on busy days. Store extra bars in the freezer for longer shelf life.
Kitchen Guide
- → What can I substitute for nuts to make these bars nut-free?
Replace nuts with additional seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds and use sunflower seed butter as a binder.
- → How can I make these bars vegan-friendly?
Swap honey with maple syrup and choose plant-based butters such as almond or sunflower seed butter.
- → Can I add extra ingredients for more nutrition?
Yes, shredded coconut or flaxseed can be added to boost fiber and healthy fats.
- → What is the best way to store these bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer freshness.
- → Are these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive diets?
Use certified gluten-free oats and check all ingredient labels to reduce gluten exposure.
