Description
These chewy honey oat granola bars are a quick, one-bowl breakfast or snack solution perfect for busy mornings. Made with simple pantry ingredients like oats, honey, and peanut butter, they are freezer-friendly and kid-approved.
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins, 1/2 cup chopped nuts, 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and lightly spray with non-stick spray.
- In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, combine honey, melted butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. Microwave for 30-45 seconds or melt over low heat, stirring until smooth and combined.
- Add the rolled oats to the wet mixture and stir vigorously until every oat is coated. Stir in any optional mix-ins.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Use a wet spoon or greased hands to press the mixture down firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until edges are golden and the top is slightly firm.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30-45 minutes to set.
- Lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and slice into 12 or 16 bars.
Notes
Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure chewy bars that hold together. Do not cut while hot, as they will be crumbly. For nut allergies, swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter. For vegan options, use maple syrup and coconut oil. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 120
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 32
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
Keywords: granola bars, honey oat bars, breakfast bars, kid-friendly snacks, freezer meals, healthy snacks, homemade granola