Description

These chewy homemade granola bars are a quick and easy no-bake snack perfect for a nutritious boost any time of day. Made with creamy peanut butter, honey, oats, mini chocolate chips, and pepitas, they combine wholesome ingredients into a satisfying treat that holds together beautifully after chilling. With just a 10-minute prep and simple mixing, these bars are ideal for meal prep or an on-the-go energy snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
⅓ cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon fine sea salt

Dry Ingredients

2½ cups old fashioned rolled oats
⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
3 tablespoons pepitas

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Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8 by 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make removing the bars easier later on.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and fine sea salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully integrated.
Add Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, mini chocolate chips, and pepitas to the peanut butter mixture.
Combine All: Stir thoroughly until the mixture is evenly combined and begins to stick together, indicating it’s ready to be pressed.
Transfer to Pan: Spread the granola mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Press Firmly: Place a sheet of parchment paper on top of the mixture and firmly press down using the back of a measuring cup to compact the bars tightly.
Chill: Refrigerate the pan uncovered for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up completely and hold their shape.
Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the chilled mixture from the pan, then slice into 8 bars. Serve immediately or store for later.

Notes

Ensure the peanut butter is smooth and creamy for easy mixing and binding.
You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
If you prefer, swap pepitas with other nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds.
Store granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Allow the bars to fully chill to avoid crumbly texture when slicing.