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Ultimate 15-Minute No Bake Chewy Granola Bars

A close-up of a thick, chewy no bake granola bar packed with oats and dried cranberries on a white plate.

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Make these simple, chewy granola bars without turning on your oven. They are perfect for quick meal prep and grab-and-go snacking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup mix-ins (e.g., dried fruit, nuts, seeds)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter or almond butter
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and your chosen mix-ins.
  3. In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine the nut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Microwave for 30 seconds until slightly softened and easily stirrable.
  4. Pour the warm binder mixture over the oat mixture. Add the vanilla extract.
  5. Stir everything together well until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spatula or another piece of parchment paper to compact it tightly.
  7. Sprinkle the chocolate chips (if using) over the top and press them lightly into the surface.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm.
  9. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 or 16 even bars.

Notes

  • For firmer bars, chill them in the freezer for 30 minutes before cutting.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

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