I was tired of store-bought granola bars filled with artificial ingredients and excessive sugar. I have spent the last year testing out homemade versions of my family’s favorite store-bought snack foods. These bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and perfect for a quick and healthy snack or a satisfying dessert. I make these for my husband and kids every week and it never seems to get old!

Why Homemade is Healthier

Store-bought granola bars often contain hidden sugars, unhealthy oils, and artificial additives. By making your own, you can control the ingredients and ensure a healthier and more nutritious snack.

Ingredients You Want To Avoid

• High-Fructose Corn Syrup 
• Refined Sugars
• Hydrogenated Oils
• Artificial Preservatives and Colors

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Customizable: You can customize your granola bars to suit your taste preferences by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and spices.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is simple and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for busy parents.
• Perfect for On-the-Go: These granola bars are portable and perfect for a quick and healthy snack, whether you’re at work, school, or running errands.

Tips For The Perfect Granola Bar

• Customize Your Mix-Ins: Add dried fruit, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your granola bars.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat you can decrease the amount of honey or maple syrup.
• Store Properly: Store your granola bars in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. These will keep for up to a week in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

How to make Homemade Chewy Granola Bars

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup hemp seeds 
• 2 tblsp Chia seeds
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 cup Peanut Butter
• ¼ cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup Pumpkin seeds
• 1 tblsp coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Blend 2 cups of oats in a blender or food processor until they’re broken down into smaller pieces. Avoid grinding them too much, you dont want oat flour. For a slightly chewier texture you can skip this step. 

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, hemp and chia seeds, and salt. You can add in other chopped nuts or seeds here as well. Remember this is customizable!

Mix Wet Ingredients: Now add your peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and melted coconut oil. Using a wooden spoon, mix together until well combined. The mixture will be sticky but somewhat stiff. If it looks too wet you can add more oats one tablespoon at a time. 

Prepare your pan: I use parchment paper to line my pan. 

Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan until flat and uniform.

Add toppings: Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and pumpkin seeds on top and press down.

Fridge to set: Cover and place into the fridge to become firm.

Cut and Store: Slice the bars and then place into an airtight container in the fridge or into the freezer for longer storage.