Homemade Granola Bars: A Healthy and Delicious Snack Recipe
Why I Love This Homemade Granola Bars Recipe
Homemade granola bars have always been one of my favorite snacks. They are quick to prepare and perfect for when I need a healthy energy boost. I love that this recipe is naturally gluten-free and free from artificial additives. Plus, it’s perfect for breakfast on the go, a mid-afternoon snack, or even a light lunch accompaniment.
These bars suit many diets. Whether you follow clean eating, need gluten-free options, or want to avoid processed sugars, this recipe fits the bill. It also works well for those who prefer plant-based snacks since you can easily swap honey with vegan alternatives.
If you’re looking for a wholesome treat that’s both delicious and nourishing, these Homemade Granola Bars are a wonderful choice.
Health Benefits of Homemade Granola Bars
This Homemade Granola Bars recipe is packed with nutrition. First, The oats in these homemade granola bars are rich in fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and improve digestion (Harvard Health). Secondly, peanut butter offers a good dose of healthy fats and protein, aiding muscle repair and steady energy.
Unlike many store-bought bars, these are low in added sugars since honey is the only sweetener. This makes them ideal for clean eating. The inclusion of nuts and seeds boosts essential minerals and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
Because they are naturally gluten-free (with certified oats), these bars are safe for people with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Overall, they provide a balanced combination of carbs, fats, and protein to fuel your day without guilt. Ingredients for Homemade Granola Bars
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup very smooth creamy natural peanut butter (or cashew butter)
- ⅔ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Heaping ½ teaspoon sea salt
Dry Ingredients
- 2½ cups whole rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips*
- 3 tablespoons pepitas (or crushed peanuts or cashews)
*Mini chocolate chips help keep the bars together. If unavailable, chop regular chocolate into small pieces.
How to Prepare Homemade Granola Bars: Step-by-Step
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will make removing the bars easier.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add dry ingredients: Pour the oats, mini chocolate chips, and pepitas into the wet mix. At first, it may seem crumbly, but continue stirring.
- Combine thoroughly: Keep mixing until everything sticks together well.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan. Use a second piece of parchment paper and the back of a measuring cup to press and flatten the mixture firmly and evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow it to set firmly.
- Slice and serve: Once chilled, slice into 8 bars. Store leftovers in the fridge for freshness.
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Serves: 8 bars
Nutritional Information (Per Bar)
- Calories: Approximately 210
- Protein: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 24 grams
- Fats: 10 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
This makes these Homemade Granola Bars a nutritious snack option, especially for those watching calorie intake but wanting sustained energy.
Nora’s Tips for Perfect Homemade Granola Bars
- Ingredient swaps: For a vegan version, replace honey with brown rice syrup. Maple syrup is less sticky and better for energy balls instead of bars.
- Make it nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter and pumpkin seeds if you have nut allergies.
- Storage: Keep bars refrigerated to maintain freshness up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container.
- Flavor boost: Add cinnamon, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
- Avoid crumbly bars: Always press the mixture firmly into the pan before chilling. Using mini chocolate chips instead of large ones helps the bars hold together better.
Try This Homemade Granola Bars Recipe and Share!
Did you try this Homemade Granola Bars recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comments below! You can also share your delicious creations on Instagram—tag me @HealthyBitesByNora so I can see and celebrate your snack success.
For more healthy recipes like this, check out my other favorites like crustless quiche or overnight oats.
Enjoy your wholesome snacking!
omemade Granola Bars
Ingredients
- Base Ingredients
- 1 cup very smooth creamy natural peanut butter or cashew butter
- ⅔ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Heaping ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Dry Ingredients
- 2½ cups whole rolled oats certified gluten-free if needed
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips*
- 3 tablespoons pepitas or crushed peanuts or cashews
- *Mini chocolate chips help keep the bars together. If unavailable chop regular chocolate into small pieces.
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will make removing the bars easier.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Add dry ingredients: Pour the oats, mini chocolate chips, and pepitas into the wet mix. At first, it may seem crumbly, but continue stirring.
- Combine thoroughly: Keep mixing until everything sticks together well.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the mixture to the lined baking pan. Use a second piece of parchment paper and the back of a measuring cup to press and flatten the mixture firmly and evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow it to set firmly.
- Slice and serve: Once chilled, slice into 8 bars. Store leftovers in the fridge for freshness.
Notes
Nutritional Information (Per Bar)
- Calories: Approximately 210
- Protein: 6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 24 grams
- Fats: 10 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
