These granola bars are incredibly easy to make, require no baking (optional depending on your version), and are fully customizable. They’re naturally sweetened, full of texture, and provide a satisfying blend of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Whether you’re heading to school, the office, or a hike, these bars are the perfect on-the-go snack.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Rolled oats
Honey or maple syrup
Peanut butter or almond butter
Chopped nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts, etc.)
Dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, apricots, etc.)
In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
If using chocolate chips, allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding to prevent melting.
Press the mixture firmly into a lined 8×8-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours until firm.
Once set, remove from the pan and cut into bars.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10–12 bars. Prep time: 10 minutes Chill time: 2 hours Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter and omit nuts; add more seeds and dried fruits.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the bars before chilling.
Baked Bars: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes for a crispier texture.
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of protein powder or hemp seeds.
Tropical Twist: Use dried pineapple, coconut flakes, and cashews.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Freeze bars individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
Reheating: Not necessary. These are served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and dairy-free chocolate chips if using.
Do I need to bake them?
No, this is a no-bake recipe, but you can bake for a crispier texture if preferred.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, though the texture will be a bit softer. Rolled oats hold up better in bars.
What kind of nut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter all work well. Make sure it’s not too runny.
How do I keep the bars from falling apart?
Press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill thoroughly. You can also add more sticky ingredients like honey or nut butter if needed.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes! Mini chocolate chips are a great addition, but cool the mixture before adding to prevent melting.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I add spices?
Absolutely. Cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, swap nuts for seeds and use sunflower seed butter.
How do I cut clean bars?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Chilling the bars thoroughly helps too.
Conclusion
Trail mix granola bars are the perfect combination of convenience, nutrition, and flavor. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re great for snacking, meal prep, and outdoor fuel. Whip up a batch and enjoy the wholesome crunch and natural sweetness wherever life takes you.
Trail mix granola bars are chewy, crunchy, and packed with oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a touch of sweetness. These no-bake bars are perfect for on-the-go energy, lunchboxes, or outdoor snacks.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:2 hours 10 minutes (including chill time)
Yield:10–12 bars
Category:Snack
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, peanuts, walnuts, etc.)
1/3 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, apricots, etc.)
1/4 cup seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, or chia seeds)
1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together honey (or maple syrup) and nut butter until smooth and well combined.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
Pour the warm nut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until well coated.
Let the mixture cool slightly, then stir in mini chocolate chips if using.
Press the mixture firmly into a lined 8×8-inch baking dish, smoothing the top evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours until firm.
Once set, remove from the pan and cut into bars.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Notes
Use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.Chill thoroughly and press firmly to help bars hold together.Customize with different nuts, fruits, or spices like cinnamon.For crispier bars, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.Bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.
