No bake granola bars
No bake granola bars.
recipe
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or sub coconut oil, melted)
2/3 cup creamy peanut butter
¼ cup honey (or maple syrup). Increase to ½ C to make it more sweet.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup Bob's Red Mill old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup crispy rice cereal (optional). I don't use them.
1/4cup chia seeds
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips or cacao nibs
Instructions
Line an 8x8 pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Set aside. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, peanut butter, honey, vanilla, cinnamon and salt and stir well.
Add the oats, crispy rice cereal, chia seeds and chocolate chips. Stir well to combine.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the granola bars to set up.
Slice and serve. Store extras, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. #homemadefood #homemadesnacks #homemade #homemadegranolabars #granolabars
No bake granola bars are a convenient and nutritious snack option that combine wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, chia seeds, and natural sweeteners. Using melted unsalted butter or coconut oil as a base helps bind the ingredients together while adding richness. Creamy peanut butter not only provides flavor but also adds protein and healthy fats, making these bars a satisfying snack. Sweetened with honey or maple syrup, the bars offer natural sweetness with optional adjustment based on taste preference. Adding vanilla extract and warm cinnamon enhances the flavor complexity, contributing to a delightful aromatic experience. The use of Bob's Red Mill old-fashioned rolled oats ensures a hearty texture, complemented by optional crispy rice cereal for extra crunch. Including chia seeds boosts the nutritional profile by adding fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Semisweet chocolate chips or cacao nibs add a touch of indulgence without overpowering the other flavors. Preparation is straightforward: mixing wet and dry ingredients, pressing the mixture into a parchment-lined pan, then chilling for at least two hours allows the bars to solidify without baking. This method suits busy individuals and families looking for quick, no-fuss homemade snacks. These homemade granola bars can be easily customized. For vegan versions, substitute honey with maple syrup and use coconut oil instead of butter. Adding dried fruits, nuts, or seeds can tailor the bars to personal taste and dietary requirements. Proper storage is essential to maintain freshness and texture; keep granola bars covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. This keeps them firm and ready to grab-and-go for breakfast, hiking, or midday energy boosts. Overall, no bake granola bars are ideal for those seeking a versatile, nutritious, and tasty snack option without needing the oven, blending convenience with excellent flavor and health benefits.