How to Make Your Own Granola Bars at Home

Learn to make healthy, customizable granola bars at home with simple ingredients your family will love.

1. Gather Your Basic Ingredients. You'll need 3 cups of old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup honey, 1/2 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter), 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips or dried fruit, 1/4 cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds, 1/4 cup shredded coconut, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Feel free to swap ingredients based on your family's preferences - try sunflower seed butter for nut allergies, different dried fruits, or seeds instead of nuts.
2. Prepare Your Workspace. Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple. If you don't have parchment paper, lightly grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients. In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the honey and peanut butter. Microwave for 30-60 seconds until the mixture is warm and easy to stir. The heat makes everything blend together smoothly. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients. Add the oats, flaxseed, coconut, and chocolate chips to the honey mixture. Stir everything together until the oats are completely coated and the mixture holds together when pressed. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon more honey. If too wet, add more oats.
5. Press and Chill. Pour the mixture into your prepared pan and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon or your hands. The key is to pack it tightly so the bars hold together when cut. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.
6. Cut and Store. Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.