Make Your Own Crunchy Granola Bars: No Hidden Ingredients, Just Pure Goodness

My husband and I are big fans of granola bars, but we often find that so many store-bought options are packed with hidden ingredients that we can’t pronounce. That’s why we decided to make our own at home!

It’s incredibly easy and simple, plus it gives us the freedom to customize our bars exactly how we like them. With just a few wholesome ingredients, we can create delicious, crunchy granola bars that satisfy our cravings without any mystery additives.

They’re perfect for meal prep and make for a quick grab-and-go snack when we're busy.

Granola bars are a fantastic snack option for several reasons. First off, they often contain whole grains, like oats, which are a great source of fiber. Fiber is essential for digestion and can help keep you feeling full longer, making these bars perfect for a mid-day boost.

Another big plus is the nutrient density. When you make your own granola bars, you can pack them with nuts and seeds, giving you healthy fats, protein, vitamins, and minerals—all of which contribute to a balanced diet. Plus, the best part about making them at home is that you can customize the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs. You have complete control over the sweeteners and can add your favorite dried fruits or adjust the nut and seed combinations.

Granola bars are also convenient. They’re pre-portioned, making them easy to grab and go, which is a lifesaver on busy mornings or when you need a quick pick-me-up. Plus, they provide a quick source of energy, making them ideal for pre- or post-workout snacks.

Lastly, by making them at home, you can avoid the artificial preservatives and additives often found in store-bought versions. So not only can you enjoy a tasty snack, but you can also feel good about what you’re eating!

Print

Crunchy Home-made Granola Bars

Yield 10-12

Author Kim Alexander

Cook modePrevent screen from turning off

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or your favorite)
• 1/4 cup seeds (sunflower or pumpkin seeds work well)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (or melted butter)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup ' data-amount-secondary='10 g'>1/4 cup dried fruit (like cranberries or raisins), 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, nuts, seeds, and salt.
3. In a small saucepan, warm the honey (or syrup) and coconut oil over medium heat until melted. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the lined pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to pack it down tightly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the top is firm.
7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. For extra crunch, refrigerate them before cutting.
8. These bars will be crunchy and satisfying, perfect for a snack or breakfast on the go!

Notes

PLEASE READ BEFORE MAKING TO ENSURE YOUR BARS COME OUT PERFECT!

1. Honey or maple syrup acts as a natural binder. Make sure you're using enough to hold the mixture together—aim for at least 1/2 cup. If you want them sweeter, you can adjust the ratio, but keep in mind that adding too much sweetener can make them overly sticky.
2. When spreading the mixture into the pan, press it down firmly. The more compact the mixture is, the better it will hold together after baking. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure it’s tightly packed.
3. Make sure to bake the bars until they are golden brown. This will help them set and create a crunchy texture. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to prevent burning.
4. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This helps them firm up as they cool. You can even refrigerate them for about 30 minutes after baking to help them set.
5. Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This makes it easier to lift the bars out and cut them without breaking.
6. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars after they’ve cooled. A dull knife can crumble the bars.
7. Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. Storing them properly can help maintain their texture.

Notes:

• If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more honey or a splash of water to help bind it.
• Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, or mix-ins, but keep the overall ratio similar to ensure they stay together.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @HomeCookVibe on instagram and hashtag it #homecookblog