Easy Homemade Granola Bars
Easy Homemade Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup honey (optional, for extra sweetness and binding)
- 1/3 cup chocolate chips (optional can swap with dried fruit, butterscotch chips etc..)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together:
- peanut butter
- applesauce
- honey (if using)
- vanilla
- cinnamon
3. Stir in the old-fashioned oats until fully combined.
4. Fold in the chocolate chips.
5. Line an 8x8 baking dish or loaf pan with parchment paper.
6. Press the mixture firmly into the pan.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Tips
- For higher protein, add a scoop of vanilla protein powder (you may need a little extra applesauce).
- Store in the fridge for firmer bars.
- Great for meal prep and quick snacks!
Soft, chewy, and way better than store-bought ✨
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Making homemade granola bars is a fantastic way to control the ingredients and customize flavors to your liking. I’ve found that using old-fashioned oats creates the best chewy texture, but you can experiment with rolled or quick oats depending on your preference. One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility: swapping chocolate chips for dried fruit like cranberries or apricots adds a delightful tartness, while butterscotch chips bring extra sweetness. In my experience, the combination of peanut butter and applesauce not only binds the bars well but also keeps them moist without needing oil or butter. The addition of honey is optional, but I like using it when I want a sweeter bar that's still wholesome. Adding cinnamon and vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile subtly, which I recommend for those who enjoy warm, comforting notes in snacks. For those who want to boost protein content, a scoop of vanilla protein powder can easily be added; just make sure to adjust the applesauce a bit to keep the right consistency. After pressing the mixture into the pan, I find that chilling the bars after baking helps them hold together better when slicing. Storing them in the refrigerator not only firms the bars but also extends their freshness, making them ideal for meal prep. This homemade granola bar recipe beats store-bought options because you can ensure there are no preservatives or excessive sugars. They make a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or a nutritious afternoon snack. Plus, the process is simple enough to do with kids, turning snack time into a fun family activity. Overall, these bars are a delicious, wholesome treat that satisfy cravings while fueling your day.
