Pin Chewy, wholesome granola bars packed with oats, seeds, and a touch of honey—perfect for bulk prep and healthy snacking in lunchboxes.
I started making these granola bars for busy days when everyone needed a quick, satisfying snack. They're now a go-to staple for our family breakfasts and outings.
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: 1/2 cup (optional)
- 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
Instructions
- Prep the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Mix the 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.
- Combine 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.
- Mix Everything Together:
- Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer and Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly and evenly with a spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup. Bake for 18-20 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.
- Storage:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage.
Pin Making granola bars together has become a weekend ritual, especially when my kids help pick their favorite add-ins. They love how every batch tastes a little different!
Required Tools
9x13-inch baking pan, parchment paper, large mixing bowl, small saucepan, measuring cups and spoons, spatula
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts (or tree nuts), dairy (if using butter), and may contain gluten if oats are not certified gluten-free. Check all labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 185, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 4 g per bar
Pin Enjoy these bars with yogurt or fruit, or pack them for a nourishing midday pick-me-up!
Recipe Q&A
- → What gives these bars their chewy texture?
The combination of honey, nut butter, and butter binds the dry ingredients and creates a chewy yet firm texture after baking.
- → Can I substitute nuts in these bars?
Yes, you can replace nuts with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower to make nut-free versions, adjusting the butter to seed butter accordingly.
- → How should I store these bars for best freshness?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer shelf life.
- → Are these bars suitable for vegan diets?
To make vegan-friendly bars, swap honey for maple syrup and use plant-based butter alternatives.
- → Can I add extras for more nutrition?
Yes, shredded coconut or flaxseed can be included to boost nutritional content and add texture.