Crunchy, chewy granola bars packed with seeds, oats, and nut butter—dipped and drizzled with dark chocolate for the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent. These bars require no baking and come together quickly, making them an ideal snack for lunchboxes, pre-workout fuel, or a wholesome sweet treat at any time of the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These no-bake chocolate drizzled granola bars are not only delicious but also nutritious and simple to make. They’re customizable with various mix-ins, require minimal cleanup, and don’t need an oven. Perfect for busy schedules, they offer a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats while satisfying your sweet tooth with a dark chocolate finish.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• rolled oats
• almond butter (or peanut butter)
• honey or maple syrup
• chopped dried cranberries or raisins
• pumpkin seeds
• sunflower seeds
• flaxseed meal or chia seeds
• cinnamon
• salt
• dark chocolate chips (melted, for dipping and drizzling)

Directions

1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, seeds, dried fruit, flaxseed, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a small saucepan, warm the almond butter and honey over low heat until smooth.
4. Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly.
5. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
6. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until the bars are firm.
7. Once set, cut into individual bars. Dip the bottoms in melted chocolate and place on parchment paper.
8. Drizzle the remaining chocolate over the tops of the bars.
9. Chill again for about 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
10. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes 10–12 bars
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond or peanut butter.
• Low-Sugar: Substitute the honey or maple syrup with a sugar-free syrup.
• Add Protein: Mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
• Flavor Twist: Add a dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of orange zest.
• Different Mix-ins: Swap cranberries for chopped dates or dried apricots, or add mini chocolate chips or coconut flakes.

storage/reheating

Store the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container—good for up to two months. No reheating is necessary; enjoy them chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

What type of oats should I use for these bars?

Rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats) work best, offering the right balance of texture and chew.

Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats instead?

Quick oats can be used, though the bars will be softer. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they remain too hard without cooking.

How do I keep the bars from falling apart?

Make sure to press the mixture very firmly into the pan and allow adequate chilling time to ensure they set properly.

Is there a substitute for honey or maple syrup?

Yes, brown rice syrup or agave nectar can be used. Choose a sticky liquid sweetener to bind the ingredients.

Can I skip the chocolate drizzle?

Yes, the bars are still delicious without chocolate. However, the drizzle adds an indulgent finish.

How do I melt the chocolate chips?

Microwave them in short intervals (15–30 seconds), stirring in between, or use a double boiler over simmering water.

Are these bars gluten-free?

If using certified gluten-free oats and checking other ingredient labels, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan instead of 8×8 for a larger batch.

What can I use instead of flaxseed meal or chia seeds?

You can omit them or replace with hemp seeds or a little extra oats.

Can I pack these in a lunchbox?

Yes, just keep them cool or in an insulated lunch bag to prevent the chocolate from melting.

Conclusion

No-bake chocolate drizzled granola bars offer a wholesome, tasty alternative to store-bought snacks. With their customizable ingredients and quick preparation, they’re a great addition to your snack rotation—balancing health and indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re meal-prepping or simply need a grab-and-go treat, these bars are a delightful solution.

Print