Save 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 homemade granola bars when my kids asked for healthier snacks in their lunches. These bars quickly became a staple in our family because they're simple to make and everyone can choose their own mix-ins.
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
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Preheat 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.
- 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.
- 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 18-20 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.
Save These granola bars are a favorite for after-school snacks. Whenever we make a batch, the kids love helping measure and stir the ingredients together.
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. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information (per bar)
Calories: 185, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 4 g
Save Homemade granola bars are endlessly adaptable and perfect for fueling busy days. Try a new combination each time you make them!
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → Can I substitute nuts for seeds in these bars?
Yes, you can replace nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds to accommodate nut-free preferences while maintaining texture and flavor.
- → What sweeteners work best for binding the bars?
Honey or maple syrup works well to bind the ingredients and add natural sweetness, with options for vegan-friendly swaps.
- → How do I store these bars for freshness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze for longer shelf life without losing texture.
- → Can I add chocolate or dried fruits to the mix?
Yes, adding mini chocolate chips or chopped dried fruits like cranberries or raisins enhances flavor and texture.
- → What baking pan size is recommended?
A 9x13-inch pan lined with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy bar removal.