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These No-Bake Almond Butter Granola Bars are soft, chewy, and naturally sweet with a rich, nutty flavor. Made with wholesome pantry staples and zero baking, they’re perfect for quick breakfasts, afternoon snacks, or a healthy grab-and-go treat. They set beautifully in the fridge and slice cleanly into satisfying bars.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups rolled oats
- ¾ cup creamy almond butter
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Optional add-ins:
- ¼ cup sliced almonds or chopped nuts
- ¼ cup dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseed
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips (dairy-free if desired)
Equipment Needed
- Medium mixing bowl
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
Tips & Variations
- Extra-firm bars: Press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Vegan option: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Crunchy texture: Lightly toast the oats in a dry skillet before mixing.
- Flavor twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
No-Bake Almond Butter Granola Bars
Description
These No-Bake Almond Butter Granola Bars are a sweet and satisfying blend of wholesome ingredients, packed with energy and flavor—ideal for any time you need a pick-me-up!
Ingredients
Ingredients for No-Bake Almond Butter Granola Bars
Instructions
Preparing the Mixture
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Gather Your Ingredients
Start by measuring out all your ingredients: rolled oats, almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and any mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit. Make sure everything is within reach for a smooth process.Using room temperature almond butter makes it easier to mix. If it's too thick, you can microwave it for a few seconds. -
Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon until the mixture is well combined and sticky.Don’t be afraid to get in there with your hands if needed—sometimes it's the best way to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.
Incorporating Add-Ins
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Add Your Favorite Mix-Ins
Fold in any additional ingredients like chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. This is where you can get creative—feel free to use whatever you have on hand!Consider toasting your nuts or seeds in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them in.
Shaping the Bars
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Prepare the Pan
Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.Make sure to press the parchment paper firmly against the bottom and sides of the dish. -
Press the Mixture into the Pan
Pour the granola mixture into the prepared pan, using your hands or a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly. This step is crucial for ensuring your bars hold together.The firmer you pack it, the less crumbly they will be later!
Chilling and Cutting
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Chill to Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the bars to firm up. This is the patience-testing part, but trust me, it’s worth it!If you’re in a hurry, you can pop them in the freezer for about 30 minutes instead. -
Cut into Bars
Once chilled, lift the granola mixture out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into bars or squares, depending on your preference.Use a sharp knife for clean edges, and you can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.
Note
- Use creamy almond butter for a smoother texture or crunchy for added bite.
- Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the mixture.
- Mix in dark chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for added sweetness and texture.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of almond milk or water to help it bind.
- Allow the bars to chill for at least 2 hours before cutting to ensure they hold together well.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts and seeds, such as walnuts or chia seeds, for a customized flavor profile.
granola bars, no-bake, almond butter, healthy snacks, quick recipes