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Homemade Granola Bars Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Homemade Granola Bars Recipe

I recently found myself craving the chewy granola bars I loved as a kid, filled with oats, nuts, and a touch of chocolate. Since I don’t usually buy pre-packaged snacks, I decided to make my own at home. Honestly, it turned out even better than I remembered!
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Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup natural peanut or cashew butter – Acts as a binder and adds protein and healthy fats. I prefer smooth runny nut butter for easy mixing.
  • 2 1/2 cups whole rolled oats – Gives a chewy texture. Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.
  • ⅔ cup honey – Sweetens and helps hold everything together. I love the warm amber flavor it adds.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle sweetness.
  • Heaping ½ teaspoon sea salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the nutty flavor.
  • ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips – Adds little bursts of chocolate. Mini chips work best; finely chopped dark chocolate works too.
  • ⅓ cup pepitas crushed peanuts, or cashews – Adds crunch, protein, and healthy fats.

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, stir together the peanut or cashew butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt until fully combined. The mixture will be smooth and aromatic, making your kitchen smell amazing.
  2. Fold in the oats, mini chocolate chips, and pepitas. The mixture may look dry at first, but keep stirring until everything is evenly incorporated.
  3. Line your baking pan with parchment paper. Scoop the mixture into the pan and cover with another sheet of parchment. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, using the back of a measuring cup to smooth the top.
  4. Refrigerate the bars for at least one hour. This step is crucial to make the bars firm and chewy. Once chilled, slice them into 8 bars and enjoy.

Notes

  • I always use runny nut butter; it helps bind the bars perfectly.
  • Don’t rush the chilling process; the bars hold together better when fully chilled.
  • I line the bars with parchment between layers when storing to prevent sticking.
  • For extra flavor, lightly toast the oats before mixing—they taste amazing.
  • I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth and depth of flavor.