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Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars for Lunchboxes

Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars for Lunchboxes - featured image

These easy no-bake peanut butter granola bars are made with just five main ingredients and are perfect for lunchboxes. They are chewy, satisfying, and packed with protein and fiber, making them a healthy snack that kids and adults love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup (170g) honey
  • 2 cups (180g) rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (85g) dark chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped peanuts
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two opposite sides. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups rolled oats and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add any dry mix-ins (like chopped peanuts, coconut, or dried fruit) and stir to distribute evenly. Set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup peanut butter and 1/2 cup honey. Stir constantly until smooth and glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the oat mixture. Fold together with a spatula until every oat is coated and the mixture is cohesive and slightly tacky.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon, a spatula, or a flat-bottomed measuring cup. Press hard to compact the mixture.
  6. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1-2 hours, or until firm. For best results, chill for 3-4 hours or overnight.
  7. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.

Notes

Press the mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling. Chill for at least 2 hours for best results. For vegan option, substitute honey with maple syrup. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. For nut-free, use sunflower seed butter and omit nut mix-ins.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake granola bars, peanut butter granola bars, lunchbox snacks, healthy snacks, easy granola bars, homemade granola bars