If you're looking for an easy no bake granola bar recipe, you've come to the right place! I remember the first time my son, Jake, helped me make these. He was so excited to mix everything together and taste the chocolate chips that he could hardly wait for them to set. These bars are not only fun to make but also a healthy snack for the whole family.
Why You’ll Love It
- They're quick to whip up without turning on the oven.
- You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins.
- They're perfect for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks.
Pure Comfort
These homemade granola bars are chewy, chocolaty, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, they’re a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen.
What You Need
- 2 cups 2 cups rolled oats – Use gluten-free oats if needed.
- 1 cup 1 cup almond butter – Peanut butter works too.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup honey – Maple syrup is a good vegan alternative.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup chocolate chips – Feel free to use dark chocolate or carob chips.
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup chia seeds – Flax seeds can be used instead.
- 1/2 tsp 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – For added flavor.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 0 minutes | Total: 10 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, they can be made a few days in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This will make the process smoother and more fun. You'll want everything ready to go before you start mixing.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, and chocolate chips. Stir them together until they're evenly mixed. This will create a delicious base for your bars.
- Next, in a separate bowl, mix the almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Use a spatula to combine them until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
- Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until all the oats and seeds are coated. It may take a bit of elbow grease, but keep mixing until you see no dry spots.
- Once mixed, transfer the mixture to an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Press it down firmly with your hands or a spatula. This will help the bars hold their shape when cut.
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 hours. This will allow the bars to set properly. You'll know they're ready when they feel firm to the touch.
- After chilling, remove the bars from the dish using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles, whatever you prefer. Enjoy these tasty treats immediately or store them for later!
Make It Perfect
- For easy cutting, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
- If you like a crunch, add some nuts or seeds to the mixture.
- Make sure to pack the mixture tightly in the dish for the best results.
Mix It Up
- Swap the chocolate chips for dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor twist.
- Mix in some protein powder for an extra boost.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a glass of milk or a smoothie.
- Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
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FAQs
Can I make these granola bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I freeze these granola bars?
Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them individually and store in a freezer bag.
What can I substitute for almond butter?
Peanut butter or sun butter are great alternatives.
How can I make these bars more chewy?
Try adding more honey or using a mix of oats and puffed rice for texture.
Conclusion
These easy no bake granola bars with chocolate chips are a delightful treat everyone will love. They're perfect for busy days, and you can feel good about serving them to your family. So, grab your ingredients and get started on this homemade granola bar adventure!
Easy No Bake Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Baking Dish
- Parchment Paper
- Spatula
- sharp knife
- refrigerator
Ingredients
Main
- 2 cups rolled oats Use gluten-free oats if needed
- 1 cup almond butter Peanut butter works too
- 1/2 cup honey Maple syrup is a good vegan alternative
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips Feel free to use dark chocolate or carob chips
- 1/4 cup chia seeds Flax seeds can be used instead
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract For added flavor
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on the counter before starting.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chia seeds, and chocolate chips evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is coated and no dry spots remain.
- Transfer the mixture to an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper and press firmly to shape.
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set.
- Remove the bars using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.