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Homemade Chewy Granola Bars

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These Homemade Chewy Granola Bars are the perfect combo of sweetness, crunch, and chewiness All wrapped into one! 

 

Main image for homemade chewy granola bars

 

Ahh the gooeyness of honey, the sweetness of brown sugar, and a yummy mix of oats and rice crispies! 

Not to mention your favorite goodies like M&M’s and pretzels! Your taste buds will thank you!

This chewy granola bar is super easy to make – no baking required!

And you can totally customize it with your favorite mix-ins. Make it yours!

These bars are the perfect chewy texture. Say goodbye to store-bought bricks!

Plus they’re a great snack for on-the-go cause they’re packed with energy!

These homemade granola bars are made with simple ingredients. So you know exactly what you’re eating!

 

oats, cereal, coconut, m&m's and pretzels

 

What Ingredients Are in Homemade Chewy Granola Bars?

Homemade chewy granola bars have:

  • Butter: You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option too.
  • Honey: Or substitute with brown rice syrup for a different twist.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds that caramel-like sweetness.
  • Salt: Just a pinch to balance the flavors.
  • Quick Cooking Oats: For that perfect chewy texture.
  • Rice Crispy Cereal: Puffed rice adds a light crunch.
  • Shredded Coconut: Very tropical! Love it!
  • M&M’s: Or any candy pieces for a fun burst of chocolate.
  • Broken Up Pretzels: Optional, for an extra salty crunch.
  • Vanilla Extract: A splash! Yum!

Pro Tips:

  • Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Use a food processor to slightly break down the oats if you prefer a finer texture in your bars.

 

butter, honey, brown sugar and salt in a pan

 

How to Make Homemade Chewy Granola Bars?

Making this great recipe is as simple as it gets!

  1. Heat butter, honey, brown sugar, and salt in a saucepan until it reaches a slight boil.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl.
  3. Combine the wet ingredients and oat mixture. 
  4. Press firmly into the pan, and chill.

Pro Tips:

  • Prepare your pan with non-stick foil, parchment paper, or cooking spray.
  • Use the back of a measuring cup to press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
  • For a firmer texture, let the mixture cool at room temperature before chilling.

 

mixed up granola bar mixture pressed into a cookie sheet

 

Are Homemade Chewy Granola Bars Healthy?

Yes, homemade chewy granola bars can be a healthy option! 

All those wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and natural sweeteners?

They’re a great source of energy! Healthy snacks that can be taken with you are the bomb!

Plus, there aren’t any ingredients you can’t pronounce like in store-bought bars!

And no high fructose corn syrup either!

 

6 granola bars laid out on counter

 

How to Store Homemade Chewy Granola Bars?

Store your homemade chewy granola bars in an airtight container.

Put parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. 

Keep them at room temperature for a softer texture or in the fridge for a firmer bite.

Whichever way you prefer is totally fine. 

Though my guess is they won’t last very long either way! You’ll eat them up pretty quick!

They’re so hard to resist!

How to Wrap Granola Bars?

Wrap each granola bar in plastic wrap or parchment paper.

This helps them keep their freshness and chewy texture.

Then maybe keep them in a ziplock bag too. That way they’ll stay really fresh.

Easy, grab-and-go snack? Yay! And delicious too? Love it!

 

granola bars laid out on a counter

 

Can You Freeze Homemade Chewy Granola Bars?

Absolutely you can freeze this chewy granola bar recipe! 

It’s a great way to extend their shelf life. 

Simply wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Then place them in a zipper bag or airtight container. 

They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. 

When you’re ready to enjoy one, just thaw it at room temperature for a few hours.

And boom! It’s good as new!

What Can You Add to a Granola Bar?

Apart from the basics like oats and honey, you can add a bunch of different ingredients to your own granola bars:

  • Nuts and seeds (like sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or sesame seeds) for a crunch and a boost of healthy fats.
  • Dried fruit (think raisins, cranberries, or apricots) for a chewy texture and natural sweetness.
  • Mini chocolate chips or chunks of dark chocolate put them over the top!
  • A swirl of almond butter or peanut butter for creamy richness and added protein.

Experiment with these add-ins to find your perfect granola bar combo!

 

granola bars laid out on a counter

 

Do Homemade Chewy Granola Bars Need to Be Refrigerated?

You don’t have to store the homemade granola bar recipe in the fridge. 

But it could help them keep their chewy texture and keep them fresh longer. 

If you prefer a softer bar, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. 

Just make sure they’re in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

When to Serve Homemade Chewy Granola Bars?

These chewy chocolate granola bars are the perfect snack for pretty much any time!

  • As a quick breakfast on-the-go.
  • Mid-morning or afternoon snack to stave off hunger.
  • Pre or post-workout energy boost.
  • On road trips or outdoor adventures for an easy, nutritious snack.

Their portability and no-mess factor make them great for busy days.

Or just when you need a quick energy lift.

 

side view of granola bars laid out on counter

 

What to Serve with Homemade Chewy Granola Bars?

Pairing this batch of granola bars with other snacks is the way to go!

I love these snacks! They’re great for taking a long with your granola bars:

Enjoy homemade chewy granola bars whenever you like and all the time! They’re easy to make, made with your favorite mix-ins, and perfect for on the go! 

 

Yield: 16 bars

No Bake Granola Bars

zoomed in image of a single granola bar

Make your own delicious and energy-packed snacks with these Chewy Granola Bars! They’re perfect for anyone looking to eat REAL ingredients!

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Inactive Time 20 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes

Instructions

  1. Line a 9x13 pan with non stick foil, parchment paper or spray, set aside.
  2. In a saucepan over medium heat, add butter, honey, brown sugar and salt.
  3. Cook over medium heat until mixture comes to a slight boil. Allow to boil for 2 minutes and 15 seconds.
  4. While mixture is coming to a boil, in a separate bowl combine oats, crispy cereal, coconut, m&m's and pretzels.
  5. Once butter mixture has boiled for 2 minutes and 15 seconds add vanilla and pour over oat mixture. Stir quickly and place in prepared pan.
  6. Press mixture firmly down. If mixture is loose then it will crumble and not set.
  7. Refrigerate for 20 minutes. Remove and slice into bars.
  8. Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between the layers.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

16

Serving Size:

1

Amount Per Serving: Calories: 150Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 118mgCarbohydrates: 24gFiber: 1gSugar: 15gProtein: 2g
Originally Posted: October 13, 2015

Photos & Text Updated: April 13, 2024

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