Easy No Bake Granola Bars

<p>These no bake granola bars are the perfect quick and easy snack, great for busy mornings or a midday energy boost. They come together with simple pantry staples and require no oven time, just a bit of chilling to firm up. The bars are chewy with a delightful nutty crunch and a luscious chocolate topping that makes them irresistible to both kids and adults. Once you try making your own, you’ll never want to go back to the storebought kind.</p> <p>I first made these on a hectic morning and was amazed how quickly they came together. Now they are a staple for snacks and road trips in my family.</p>

Ingredients

<ul><li><strong>Granola:</strong> I used Dorset Cereals Divine Maple Pecan and Nuts for a flavorful, high-fiber base. Choose a granola you enjoy that is not too sugary or clumpy</li><li><strong>Dried cranberries:</strong> Add chewiness and a touch of natural sweetness</li><li><strong>Maple syrup:</strong> A natural sweetener that helps bind the bars; you can swap with honey or a mix of syrup and brown sugar if preferred</li><li><strong>Avocado oil:</strong> Helps to keep the bars together and adds a mild richness; coconut oil works well too and adds a subtle coconut hint</li><li><strong>Peanut butter:</strong> Choose creamy or crunchy based on texture preference, or substitute another nut butter if desired</li><li><strong>Vanilla extract:</strong> Balances flavors with a warm, sweet aroma; feel free to try almond or other extracts too</li><li><strong>Chocolate bark:</strong> For the topping; any kind of chocolate that melts smoothly will do</li><li><strong>Pecans:</strong> Provide a satisfying crunch on top; walnuts, almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts also work nicely</li></ul>

Instructions

<dl><dt><strong>Prepare the pan:</strong></dt><dd>Line an 8inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.</dd><dt><strong>Combine granola and cranberries:</strong></dt><dd>Mix the granola and cranberries in a large bowl so the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the base.</dd><dt><strong>Add oil and syrup:</strong></dt><dd>Stir in the avocado oil and maple syrup to coat all the granola and fruit, helping the bars stick together later.</dd><dt><strong>Incorporate peanut butter:</strong></dt><dd>Warm the peanut butter slightly so it mixes easily, then add it to the main bowl and stir until the mixture is sticky and cohesive.</dd><dt><strong>Press into the pan:</strong></dt><dd>Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and use a fork or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and evenly so the bars hold their shape after chilling.</dd><dt><strong>Melt the chocolate:</strong></dt><dd>Melt the chocolate bark with a little avocado oil over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth and glossy.</dd><dt><strong>Top with chocolate and nuts:</strong></dt><dd>Pour the melted chocolate over the pressed granola and spread it evenly, then sprinkle chopped pecans on top and press lightly so they adhere without sinking.</dd><dt><strong>Chill to set:</strong></dt><dd>Place the pan in the freezer for at least one hour or overnight to let the bars set firmly.</dd><dt><strong>Cut and serve:</strong></dt><dd>Use the parchment to lift the chilled block from the pan and cut into bars or squares before serving.</dd></dl>

<p>My favorite ingredient here has to be the maple syrup which adds just the right touch of sweetness and helps everything bind nicely without tasting overly sweet. One unforgettable moment was making these with my kids. They loved pressing the mixture into the pan and sprinkling the nuts, turning it into a fun family activity that ended with tasting the finished bars together.</p>

Storage Tips

<p>Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to a few weeks. For on the go snacking, wrap individual bars in parchment and tuck into reusable silicone bags. To keep them longer, freeze the bars in a sealed container or zip bag and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before eating.</p>

Ingredient Substitutions

<p>Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter if peanut butter isn’t your favorite or in case of allergies. Swap dried cranberries for raisins, chopped dried apricots, or freeze dried fruit for a different flavor and texture. Change up the nuts on top to walnuts, almonds, or pistachios depending on your preference or what you have available.</p>

Serving Suggestions

<p>These bars are great on their own or crumbled over yogurt or smoothie bowls for added texture. Pair with coffee or iced tea for a balanced snack, or serve alongside egg bites and fresh fruit for a casual brunch spread.</p>

<p>Quick to assemble and endlessly customizable, these no bake granola bars make a reliable snack or travel treat.</p>

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What type of granola works best?

Use any granola you prefer, such as nutty or fruity varieties. Dorset Cereals Divine Maple Pecan adds great flavor and texture.

→ Can I substitute peanut butter?

Yes, almond butter or any nut-free butter can be used to suit allergies or taste preferences.

→ Why is avocado oil used?

Avocado oil adds moisture and helps bind ingredients without overpowering flavors.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store at room temperature or in the refrigerator for freshness. They also freeze well for long-term storage.

→ Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely, try white chocolate chips, chia seeds, coconut flakes, or pumpkin seeds for variety and texture.