Healthy Homemade Granola Bars (Printable)

Naturally sweet oat bars with nuts, seeds, and honey for wholesome snacking.

# What You'll Need:

→ Base Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup chopped almonds
03 - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
04 - 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

→ Binding Agents and Sweeteners

05 - 1/3 cup honey or pure maple syrup
06 - 1/4 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
07 - 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Optional Add-ins

10 - 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free if desired)
11 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
12 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut

# How-To Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on opposite sides for easy removal.
02 - Spread the oats, almonds, and walnuts in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Toast in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey (or maple syrup), peanut butter, and coconut oil. Stir continuously with a heat-resistant spatula until completely smooth and melted. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla extract and sea salt.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted oats, nuts, pumpkin seeds, and shredded coconut (if using). Add the dried cranberries and chocolate chips, reserving 1 tablespoon of chips for topping. Toss to distribute evenly.
05 - Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a sturdy spatula, mix thoroughly until all dry ingredients are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly and evenly using the back of the spatula or damp hands to pack the mixture tightly.
06 - Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips over the surface and press gently to adhere. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely firm and set.
07 - Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into 12 equal bars. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They strike that perfect balance between crunchy and chewy that store-bought bars never seem to achieve
  • You can customize the add-ins based on whatever nuts, seeds, or dried fruits are languishing in your pantry
  • They actually hold together instead of crumbling into disappointment the moment you take a bite
02 -
  • Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is the secret to bars that hold together instead of crumbling
  • The chilling time is non-negotiable, even if you are eager to try them
  • Using old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats makes a dramatic difference in texture
03 -
  • Dampen your hands with water before pressing the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking
  • Wait until the toasted oats have cooled slightly before combining with the wet ingredients

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