High Protein ReciperecRecipe

No-Bake Chocolate Granola Bars

Updated on 4 min read

These No-Bake Chocolate Granola Bars are everything a snack should be — chewy, crunchy, naturally sweet, and held together with a rich layer of melted chocolate. They’re packed with wholesome oats, nuts, dried fruit, and a sticky honey mixture that binds everything without baking.

Whether you need a lunchbox treat, a grab-and-go breakfast, or a clean-ingredient snack to keep in the fridge, these bars deliver comfort and convenience in every bite.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 12 full-size bars (or 24 mini bars)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Nutritional Info (Per Bar – Approx.)

  • Calories: 210
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Carbs: 29g
  • Fiber: 3g
    (Exact values vary based on mix-ins.)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups rolled oats
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans — your choice)
  • ½ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots, or a mix)
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Wet Ingredients

  • ½ cup honey or maple syrup
  • ⅓ cup peanut butter or almond butter
  • 3 tablespoons butter or coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 cup chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for smoothing and shine)

Tools You’ll Need

  • 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish
  • Parchment paper
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula
  • Knife for slicing

⭐ How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Granola Bars

1. Prepare the Pan

Line a baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

  • oats
  • nuts
  • dried fruit
  • coconut (optional)
  • salt

Stir to mix evenly.

3. Make the Sticky Binder

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt together:

  • honey or maple syrup
  • peanut butter
  • butter or coconut oil

Stir until smooth, creamy, and bubbling slightly.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

4. Combine Everything

Pour the warm binder mixture over the dry bowl.

Mix thoroughly until all oats and fruit are coated.

Transfer to the lined pan and press very firmly using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
(This is how the bars hold their shape!)

5. Add the Chocolate Layer

Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave (20–30 second bursts) or over a double boiler.

Pour over the granola mixture and spread evenly.

6. Chill & Slice

Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until firm.

Lift out using parchment, place on a cutting board, and slice into bars.

Store in freezer for firmer bars or fridge for softer chew.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Customize Your Mix-Ins

  • Dried cherries
  • Chopped dates
  • Pistachios
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • White chocolate drizzle

Nut-Free Option

Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.

Sweeter Version

Add 2 tablespoons brown sugar to the wet mixture.

High-Protein Variation

  • Add ¼ cup vanilla protein powder
  • Replace some oats with puffed quinoa

Serving Suggestions

  • Lunchbox snacks
  • Pre-workout fuel
  • Coffee pairing
  • Road-trip treat
  • Healthy dessert bite

Cut into mini squares for parties or kid-friendly snacking.

Tips for Best Results

  • Press very firmly — the harder you press, the better they hold.
  • Chill fully before slicing.
  • Use rolled oats, not quick oats, for better texture.
  • If bars seem crumbly, increase honey by 1–2 tablespoons.
  • For cleaner slices, warm the knife under hot water and dry it.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Keeps 1–2 weeks in an airtight container.

Freezer:
Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw 5–10 minutes before eating.

Room Temperature:
1–2 days (if your kitchen isn’t too warm).

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are my granola bars falling apart?

Not enough binder or not pressed firmly enough. Add extra honey or press harder.

Q: Can I leave out the chocolate?

Yes — they’re delicious plain or with a yogurt drizzle.

Q: Can I reduce the sweetness?

Use ¼ cup honey + ¼ cup peanut butter + 1–2 tablespoons coconut oil.

Q: Can kids make these?

Absolutely — no baking required!

Conclusion

These No-Bake Chocolate Granola Bars are the kind of snack you’ll want to make again and again — simple ingredients, endless customization, and pure chewy-chocolatey satisfaction in every bite. Perfect for busy days, healthy cravings, or anytime you want a sweet but wholesome treat.

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Made these bars? Snap a picture and share your chocolatey creations — I’d love to see your homemade granola bar magic!

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