Homemade Granola Bars without Peanut Butter
These easy homemade granola bars are made without peanut butter. They are simple, chewy, and have enough chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth. If you like munching on healthy snacks, this recipe is perfect!
Servings: 8 bars
Calories: 427kcal
Ingredients
- 2 cups granola
- 1 teaspoon flaxseed ground
- ½ cup coconut oil
- 2 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- ¼ cup orange juice freshly squeezed orange or bottled orange juice
- ¼ cup almond butter
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Start by combining all the dry ingredients in a large bowl, including the chocolate chips.
- In a small saucepan, melt the wet ingredients together until smooth, then pour them over the dry mixture.
- Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer the mixture into granola bar molds or an 8x8-inch square pan lined with parchment paper, pressing it down firmly.
- Place the molds in the refrigerator for about 1 to 2 hours, or until the bars are fully set.
Notes
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- Press the mixture firmly into the molds or pan so the bars hold together well.
- Let the bars chill fully in the refrigerator before cutting or removing from molds for the cleanest edges.
- Line your pan with parchment paper if you are not using molds. This makes lifting out and slicing much easier.
- For a less sweet option, use dark chocolate chips or replace half with cacao nibs.
- Keep bars stored in the fridge so they stay firm and fresh.
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- Almond butter: Cashew butter, sunflower seed butter (nut-free), or tahini are excellent substitutes. Peanut butter also works if there are no allergies.
- Coconut oil: Melted butter or avocado oil can be used as a substitute for coconut oil.
- Maple syrup or honey: Agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or date syrup are good alternatives. Brown rice syrup is especially sticky, which helps hold the bars together.
- Chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chunks or even dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates can be used for a different flavor twist.
- Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This helps them stay firm and compact, especially on warmer days.
- On the counter: If your kitchen is cool, you can store them in a sealed container on the counter for 2–3 days, but keep in mind that the coconut oil may soften if it is warm.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place the bars in a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment paper between layers. They keep well for up to 2 months. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
Nutrition
Serving: 1bar | Calories: 427kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 30g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 11mg | Potassium: 264mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 21g | Vitamin A: 16IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 73mg | Iron: 2mg
