Imagine having a stash of delicious, no-bake granola bars at your fingertips – perfect for whenever hunger strikes. These easy-to-make treats require no baking, just a short chill in the fridge until they set. Made with simple pantry staples, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re racing out the door or need a quick pick-me-up, these chewy, nutty bars are sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins. Say goodbye to store-bought granola bars and hello to homemade goodness! With no baking required, you can whip up a batch in no time – making them perfect for any occasion, from breakfast or brunch to a post-workout snack or after-school treat. Plus, they’re sweet, chewy, and utterly delicious. And if you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out our other homemade bar recipes, like baked oatmeal bars, chocolate coconut bars, or strawberry oat bars – the possibilities are endless!
Why You’ll Love Them
Making homemade granola bars is a game-changer, and once you try this no-bake recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought again. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to follow and requires minimal effort. These bars are not only deliciously fresh, but they’re also soft and chewy, eliminating the pesky crumbs that come with traditional granola bars. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its customizability – feel free to get creative with your mix-ins and ingredients, making each batch unique and tailored to your taste.
Choosing a Granola for Baking
At Dorset Cereals, crafting exceptional granolas and muesli is a hallmark of expertise. These mouth-watering treats not only shine as standalone snacks but also elevate countless recipes with their rich flavor profiles. As a testament to their commitment to quality, Dorset’s products are specifically designed for individuals who prioritize an active and healthy lifestyle. Packed with fiber, non-GMO, and vegetarian-friendly, these cereals cater seamlessly to the needs of those seeking wholesome indulgence or looking to level up their culinary creations.
How to Make No-Bake Granola Bars
To begin, prepare your 8-inch cake pan by lining it with parchment paper. Next, combine the granola and cranberries in a bowl, followed by adding the avocado oil and maple syrup. Afterward, mix in the peanut butter until well combined. Transfer this mixture to the prepared cake pan, using a fork to press it down evenly into the corners of the pan. For the topping, melt the chocolate and avocado oil together in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring frequently to ensure smoothness. Once melted, pour the topping over the bar mixture in the cake pan. Finish by sprinkling chopped pecans on top and then refrigerate the dessert overnight or for at least an hour before slicing into bars to serve.
Substitutions and Variations
When it comes to customizing your homemade granola bars, the possibilities are endless! For a gluten-free option, be sure to use gluten-free granola as your base. If someone in your household has a peanut intolerance, you can easily swap out the peanut butter for almond butter. And don’t be afraid to get creative with different types of fruit and nuts – dried cranberries could become raisins, and pecans could be replaced by your preferred nut variety. The fun doesn’t stop there, though. Consider adding in optional ingredients like white chocolate chips, mini chocolate chips, chia seeds, coconut flakes, old-fashioned oats, pumpkin seeds, or any other mix-ins that strike your fancy. With these simple substitutions and add-ins, you can create a unique granola bar flavor that’s all your own.
How to Store
When storing store-bought or homemade energy bars, it’s essential to maintain optimal conditions to preserve their quality and shelf life. For most types of energy bars, room temperature is suitable, while others may benefit from refrigeration. If you’re planning a hike or day trip with your snacks, wrap them in parchment paper and then place them in a snack-sized zip bag or reusable silicone bag for added convenience and protection. Refrigerated storage can help extend the shelf life to several weeks. For longer-term preservation, freezing is also an option, allowing you to enjoy your energy bars for months. When thawing frozen energy bars, simply leave them overnight in the refrigerator.
Top Tips
When crafting homemade granola bars, it’s crucial to strike the right balance in terms of ingredients. Ensure you measure out the granola accurately, as excessive amounts can result in crumbly textures, while insufficient quantities may lead to overly gooey bars. Allow ample time for chilling: at least an hour in the freezer is necessary to facilitate proper setting and cohesion. And don’t be afraid to experiment – use your favorite granolas, chocolates, dried fruits, and nuts to create one-of-a-kind treats that truly reflect your personal taste.
Homemade Granola Bars FAQs
If you’re looking for a creative twist, feel free to substitute other types of cereal to make these no-bake granola bars. Dorset Cereals offers a variety of granola and muesli options, so choose the one that suits your taste buds best. You can opt for a more robust flavor by using a different type of cereal or stick with granola, which already has a medley of ingredients to keep things interesting. On the other hand, if you prefer, you can also experiment with coconut oil instead of avocado oil. The added bonus is that these healthy fats will not only add moisture but also provide a neutral flavor profile that won’t overpower the bars. In terms of serving suggestions, I find that crumbling these no-bake granola bars over a bowl of yogurt in the morning adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor. Alternatively, you can layer them with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries to create stunning sundaes that are sure to impress.
Homemade Granola Bar Recipe
No Bake Granola Bars
Homemade no-bake granola bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re in need of a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack after a workout or a healthy pick-me-up between school and extracurricular activities, these chewy and delicious bars have got you covered.
Preparation time is a breeze at just 10 minutes, and the only other requirement is to let them chill for an hour before indulging. The end result? 14 tasty bars that are sure to become a staple in your household.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to the perfect setting by lining an 8- or 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper – the choice between sizes will result in slightly varying bar thicknesses. Set it aside for now. In a mixing bowl, combine the granola and cranberries for a flavorful base. Next, add the avocado oil and maple syrup, stirring until the ingredients are well-coated. The peanut butter will thicken the mixture, so be sure to mix thoroughly. Transfer this sticky blend into the prepared pan and press it down with a fork to ensure even coverage. To top things off, melt some chocolate and avocado oil in a pan on the stovetop or microwave – just be mindful of the heat and stir frequently until smooth. Pour this rich mixture over the bars and sprinkle chopped pecans evenly across the top (no mixing necessary here!). Finally, chill these babies in the freezer for at least an hour or let them sit overnight in the refrigerator before cutting into desired portions.
Notes
When crafting your own granola bars, precision is key. While it’s not necessary to be exacting with measurements, it’s crucial to strike a balance. Too much granola can result in crumbly bars, while too little will leave them sticky. Aiming for accuracy will yield the perfect texture. Additionally, make sure you give your creations sufficient time to chill and set. A minimum of one hour in the freezer is recommended. Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative! Use a variety of granolas, chocolates, dried fruits, and nuts to personalize your bars and make them truly unique.