3 Ingredient No Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars | Easy Healthy Snack

Adam

3 Ingredient No Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars | Easy Healthy Snack

Sometimes the best recipes are the simplest ones. These 3 Ingredient No Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars are proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients or fancy techniques to make a delicious, wholesome snack. With just peanut butter, oats, and sweetener, you can whip up chewy, protein-packed bars that are perfect for breakfast on the go, post-workout fuel, or an afternoon pick-me-up. No baking required means they’re fast, fuss-free, and kid-friendly — a great option to keep in the fridge for healthy snacking all week long.

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Prep Time 10

chill time 2

Total Time 2 10

Servings: 12 bars

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 ½ cups rolled oats use certified gluten-free if needed
1 cup natural creamy peanut butter
½ cup honey or maple syrup
Optional add-ins:
¼ cup mini chocolate chips
¼ cup chopped nuts or seeds
Pinch of salt if peanut butter is unsalted

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or wooden spoon
8x8-inch baking dish
Parchment paper
Refrigerator for chilling

Method

Step 1: Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving extra overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth.

Step 3: Add rolled oats and mix until well combined. The mixture should be sticky but easy to press.

Step 4: Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly.

Step 5: Optional: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips or nuts on top and press lightly into the surface.

Step 6: Refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm.

Step 7: Lift out using parchment overhang and slice into bars.

Step 8: Store in the fridge for grab-and-go snacking.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days (softer texture).

Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 1 week.

Freezer: Store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before eating.

Reheating: Not needed — enjoy chilled or room temp.

🥄 Variations

Almond version: Swap peanut butter for almond butter.

Vegan option: Use maple syrup instead of honey.

Chocolate lovers: Stir in cocoa powder or drizzle melted chocolate on top.

Protein boost: Add 2 tablespoons of protein powder.

Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter for a school-safe snack.

❓ 10 FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
– Yes, though the bars will be softer.

Do I need to heat the mixture?
– Not usually, but warming peanut butter and honey slightly can make mixing easier.

Can I make these gluten-free?
– Yes, just use certified gluten-free oats.

Can I use chunky peanut butter?
– Absolutely, it adds extra crunch.

How do I keep the bars from crumbling?
– Press firmly into the pan and chill thoroughly before slicing.

Can I use agave instead of honey or maple syrup?
– Yes, agave works too.

Can I add dried fruit?
– Yes, raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates are great mix-ins.

Do kids like these?
– Definitely! They’re chewy, sweet, and fun to help make.

Can I double the recipe?
– Yes, use a 9x13-inch pan for a double batch.

Do they hold up well in lunchboxes?
– Yes, but they’re best stored cold to stay firm.

🏁 Conclusion
These 3 Ingredient No Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars are everything you want in a snack — simple, healthy, and delicious. With chewy oats, creamy peanut butter, and a touch of natural sweetness, they’re quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Keep a batch in your fridge or freezer, and you’ll always have a wholesome snack ready to go.