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–+ servings
Homemade granola bars spread on a white tabletop.
5 from 2 votes

Homemade Granola Bars

Chewy, sweet, and filling, these granola bars are the perfect snack! They come together in just a few minutes, don't require any baking, and are utterly delicious.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Chill time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 20 minutes
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: easy snacks, granola bars, homemade granola bars
Servings: 12 granola bars
Calories: 285kcal
Author: Laura Ascher

Equipment

  • 8x10 baking dish

Ingredients

  • 3 cups instant oats
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar lightly packed
  • 3/4 cup peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Grease an 8x10" baking dish and set it aside.
  • Add the oats to a large mixing bowl.
  • In a small saucepan, combine the butter and brown sugar. Bring to a low simmer, stirring until the sugar has fully dissolved.
  • While the butter is melting, add peanut butter and honey to the oats and mix well until all the oats are coated.
  • Pour the melted butter and brown sugar in and mix again. Make sure there are no dry oats.
  • Mix in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Scoop the mixture into your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to firmly press it down until tightly packed.
  • Chill in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours before slicing into bars.
  • Store the bars in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

  • Press the granola mixture down firmly and make sure it is well compacted so when it is time to slice, the bars hold their shape and do not fall apart.
  • I usually use natural peanut butter, but if you want that classic granola bar texture, regular peanut butter with a thicker consistency actually works even better.
  • Homemade granola bars can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • When storing your granola bars, I recommend separating the layers with a piece of parchment paper or wrapping each bar individually so they don't stick together.
  • Want to make more than a week's supply at a time? You can freeze these granola bars for later!
  • I grease my baking dish with coconut oil or butter, but you can use another oil or cooking spray. You can also line the baking dish with parchment paper instead of greasing it.