Print

Easy No-Bake Granola Bars with Dried Cranberries

easy no bake granola bars - featured image

These chewy no-bake granola bars combine rolled oats, dried cranberries, peanut butter, and honey for a quick, healthy snack with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180g) rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (70g) dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup (125g) natural peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup (113g) honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup natural peanut butter and 1/3 cup honey. Microwave for about 20 seconds to soften.
  3. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon into the warm mixture.
  4. Add 2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, a pinch of salt, and optional 2 tbsp chia seeds. Mix thoroughly until all oats are coated. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water or more honey.
  5. Transfer mixture to the lined pan and press firmly and evenly using a spatula or lightly wet hands.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
  7. Lift the chilled block using parchment overhang and cut into 8 to 10 bars with a sharp knife. Warm the knife under hot water if it sticks.
  8. Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Notes

Microwaving the peanut butter and honey softens them for easier mixing and pressing. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to avoid crumbly bars. Chill thoroughly before cutting for clean slices. Optional chia seeds add fiber and crunch. Substitute almond or cashew butter for peanut butter if desired. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter or tahini.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake granola bars, healthy snack, dried cranberries, peanut butter bars, easy snack recipe, gluten-free granola bars