Homemade Granola Bars No Peanut Butter
Granola bars have long been a favorite snack, loved for their chewy texture, wholesome ingredients, and on-the-go convenience. Whether you’re packing a school lunch, planning a road trip, or simply reaching for a midday energy boost, homemade granola bars are always a smart and satisfying choice.
Many recipes call for peanut butter as a binding ingredient. While it adds flavor and richness, not everyone can enjoy it. Whether you’re dealing with allergies, preferences, or just want a new twist, making homemade granola bars without peanut butter is easier than it seems. You can still achieve a chewy, cohesive texture with other natural options, and the flavor possibilities are wide open.
These bars use pantry staples like oats, honey, seeds, and dried fruit. They’re soft yet firm, easy to slice, and hold together beautifully. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened and customizable to fit your favorite mix-ins. The best part? You know exactly what’s going into each bite.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a handy table of ingredients along with approximate calorie counts per serving:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 2 cups | 300 |
| Honey or maple syrup | ⅓ cup | 270 |
| Coconut oil (melted) | ¼ cup | 240 |
| Chia seeds | 2 tablespoons | 120 |
| Flaxseed meal | 2 tablespoons | 70 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
| Dried cranberries | ½ cup | 180 |
| Sunflower seeds | ¼ cup | 200 |
| Mini chocolate chips (optional) | ¼ cup | 160 |
| Sea salt | ¼ teaspoon | 0 |
Estimated Total Calories: ~1550
(Makes 10 bars — approximately 155 calories per bar)
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preparing a small baking dish or loaf pan. Line it with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, flaxseed meal, sunflower seeds, and salt. Stir well so everything is evenly distributed.
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey and coconut oil together. Stir until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the warm liquid mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir with a rubber spatula until everything is fully coated. The mixture should look sticky and clump together.
Now fold in the dried cranberries and optional chocolate chips. You can also add pumpkin seeds, raisins, or coconut flakes here if desired.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press it down firmly with the spatula or the bottom of a measuring cup. This helps compact the bars so they hold their shape after cutting.
Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Once set, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board. Slice into 10 even bars.
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
These granola bars are a blank canvas for creativity. Swap out sunflower seeds for chopped almonds, pecans, or pumpkin seeds. If nuts are not an issue, almond butter or cashew butter can be used in place of coconut oil for a more protein-rich bar.
Want a fruity version? Add chopped dried apricots, mango, or cherries. If you prefer chocolatey bars, stir in mini chocolate chunks, cacao nibs, or even a swirl of melted chocolate on top after chilling.
To boost fiber, add a tablespoon of oat bran or wheat germ. For extra sweetness, you can drizzle a touch of maple syrup over the finished bars.
If you enjoy spices, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. It enhances the flavor and gives a warm undertone to each bite.
Looking for a protein boost? Stir in a scoop of your favorite plant-based or whey protein powder. Just make sure to slightly increase the liquid to keep the mixture moist.
Nutritional Information
Per bar (approximate, based on 10 servings):
- Calories: 155
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugars: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 25mg
These bars are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and natural energy. They’re great for breakfast on the run, a midday snack, or a pre-workout bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these granola bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a peaceful morning. They also make a great addition to school lunchboxes or afternoon snack trays with fresh fruit.
If you’re entertaining or meal prepping, cut them into bite-sized squares for an energy-packed snack plate. They’re great for hiking trips, long car rides, or anytime you need fuel on the move.
You can even crumble a bar over yogurt and fresh berries for a quick parfait. The texture adds just the right crunch to creamy layers.
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Conclusion
Granola bars made without peanut butter are just as satisfying as the traditional kind. They’re chewy, flavorful, and naturally sweetened. The recipe is easy to follow and offers lots of room to get creative.
Whether you’re avoiding peanuts or just trying something new, these homemade bars are a smart choice. They taste better than store-bought, cost less, and can be tailored to your favorite ingredients. Make a batch, slice them up, and keep them ready whenever hunger strikes. It’s a snack you’ll feel good about enjoying every time.