No Bake – Homemade Granola Bars
This recipe shows you how easy and cost-effective it is to make your own granola bars.
You’ll never want to buy a granola bar again once you have made your own – this is the only bar you will want to snack on!
Here’s the recipe for no-bake granola bars:
INGREDIENTS
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup pitted dates
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup nut butter of your choice (e.g., almond butter, peanut butter)
1/2 cup chopped nuts or seeds (e.g., almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds)
1/2 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots)
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
METHOD
Place the pitted dates in a food processor and blend until they form a sticky paste.
In a saucepan over low heat, warm the honey or maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined and smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts or seeds, dried fruits, and dark chocolate chips (if using). Mix well.
Add the date paste and the honey or maple syrup mixture to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly combined and coated.
Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Transfer the mixture to the lined baking dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press it down tightly.
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours, or until the mixture is firm and holds its shape.
Once chilled, remove the granola slab from the baking dish and cut it into bars or squares of your desired size.
Store the no-bake granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
These no-bake granola bars are easy to make and require no oven time. They are a convenient and nutritious snack for when you’re on the go or need a quick energy boost. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favourite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or spices. Enjoy!