Delicious Chewy Granola Bars Recipe

Looking for a snack that’s a hit with kids and parents alike? Look no further than these Chewy Granola Bars. These bars are not your average granola snack – they are chewy, perfectly sweet, and packed with just the right amount of M&M’s to make them special without being overly indulgent. Created after a series of kitchen experiments with my ten-year-old, these bars have become a household favorite, perfect for school lunches, after-school activities, or even just as a quick grab-and-go treat.

The secret to these Chewy Granola Bars lies in the meticulous measurement of the wet ingredients. Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way that precision is key in achieving that perfect chewy texture. Mixing creamy peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil together creates a luscious golden concoction that binds all the ingredients together. Be sure to handle the mixture with care to avoid any mishaps like melted chocolate chips – although, I must admit, even those mishaps turned out to be delicious surprises. So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe closely, and get ready to enjoy a snack that will have everyone asking for more.

Quick Benefits

• Kid-Approved: Packed with mini chocolate chips and M&Ms, these granola bars are a hit with kids and even the pickiest eaters.
• Convenient and Portable: Perfect for school lunches, sports practices, or on-the-go snacking, these bars are sturdy, tasty, and easy to take anywhere.
• Customizable: Easily swap in different nuts, candies, or dried fruits to create your own unique flavor combinations and keep things exciting.
• Long-Lasting: Can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer shelf life, making them a handy snack to have on hand whenever hunger strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Chewy Granola Bars Recipe Recipe

• Irresistible Combination: The blend of creamy peanut butter, honey, coconut oil, oats, shredded coconut, cashews, chocolate chips, and M&Ms creates a harmonious mix of flavors and textures that make these granola bars irresistible.
• Kid-Approved: These bars were born out of a child’s request for candy-filled granola bars, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. They strike the perfect balance between being a treat and a wholesome snack.
• Perfect Chewiness: The chewy texture of these granola bars makes them satisfying to bite into, providing a delightful mouthfeel with each bite.
• Versatile Recipe: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping nuts or candies, allowing you to cater to different preferences and get creative with the ingredients you have on hand.
• Convenient & Portable: These bars are perfect for on-the-go snacking, lunchboxes, sports practices, or keeping in your purse for a quick and tasty energy boost whenever you need it.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch, freeze individual bars, and enjoy them whenever you need a quick snack. They are a lifesaver for busy days or unexpected cravings.
• Homemade Goodness: By making these granola bars at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier alternative to store-bought options while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Ingredients for Delicious Chewy Granola Bars Recipe

Base Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (solid)
• ½ cup honey
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust if using salted nuts/PB)
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• ¼ cup shredded coconut
• ¾ cup roasted and salted cashews

Mix-ins

• 6 tablespoons mini chocolate chips, divided
• 6 tablespoons mini M&M’s, divided

How to Make Delicious Chewy Granola Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prep Pan

Prepare an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for overhang to easily lift out the finished product.

Step 2: Make Binding Mixture

In a pot over medium heat, melt peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil. Simmer for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool for 3 minutes. Stir in salt and vanilla.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Coarsely chop cashews, then combine with oats, coconut, and cashews. Allow to cool for 15-25 minutes until slightly warm. Stir in ¼ cup of chocolate chips and M&M’s each.

Step 4: Form Bars

Press mixture firmly into pan using measuring cup base. Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and M&M’s on top, pressing lightly.

Step 5: Set and Cut

Chill for 1 hour, then remove from pan using parchment paper and cut into 12 bars.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made a batch of these delicious Chewy Granola Bars, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness and texture. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cool temperature of the fridge will help them retain their chewiness and prevent them from becoming too soft or sticky.

If you find that you have made a larger batch or want to save some for later, these bars also freeze well. Wrap individual bars tightly in parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freezing the bars not only extends their shelf life but also makes them convenient for quick grab-and-go snacks. Remember to avoid using plastic wrap directly on the bars to prevent them from sticking, as parchment paper works better for easy removal without any mess. Whether stored in the fridge or freezer, having these Chewy Granola Bars on hand will make snack time or busy mornings a breeze.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions in this chewy granola bars recipe, there are a few options to consider. For the nut butter, you can swap out creamy peanut butter for alternatives like almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies or preferences. These options will still provide a creamy texture and nutty flavor to the bars.

If you don’t have honey on hand or prefer a different sweetener, you can replace it with maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a combination of brown sugar and water. Just keep in mind that different sweeteners may alter the flavor slightly, so adjust to taste as needed. Additionally, for the nuts and candies, feel free to customize based on what you have available or prefer. You can substitute cashews with almonds, pecans, or any other nut you enjoy. Similarly, you can switch out the mini M&M’s and chocolate chips with dried fruit, raisins, cranberries, or even chopped dates for a different flavor profile. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

These chewy granola bars are not just a snack; they’re a delicious storytelling experience. For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, set up a DIY granola bar decorating station where kids (and adults) can personalize their bars with additional toppings like crushed pretzels, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. Let creativity run wild and watch as each person crafts their perfect chewy treat that reflects their unique taste preferences.

To elevate the presentation of these addictive granola bars, create a stunning dessert platter by cutting them into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a wooden board along with small bowls of colorful candies, fresh berries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This visually appealing display will not only entice your guests but also encourage them to mix and match different flavors and textures, turning snack time into a delightful culinary adventure.

FAQs for Delicious Chewy Granola Bars Recipe

Question?

Why is it important to measure the wet ingredients precisely for making chewy granola bars?

Question?

How can I prevent the chocolate chips from melting when mixing the wet ingredients for the granola bars?

Question?

Is it necessary to let the granola bars cool completely before cutting them?

Question?

Can I customize the ingredients in the chewy granola bars recipe?

Conclusion

As you wrap up your Chewy Granola Bars baking adventure, remember that each batch tells a story – from kitchen mishaps turned lessons to snack-time victories. These bars are not just a recipe; they’re a symbol of homemade goodness and heartfelt moments shared with loved ones. So, whether you’re sneaking one into a lunchbox or savoring a square during a busy afternoon, let these bars be a reminder of your kitchen triumphs and the joy of creating something special for those around you.

Embrace the magic of these Chewy Granola Bars – they’re more than just a snack; they’re a testament to your creativity and love for your family. So, keep experimenting with different add-ins, enjoy the process of making them, and relish the smiles they bring to those who taste them. From your kitchen to theirs, let these bars continue to be a beacon of warmth, sweetness, and homemade happiness.

Delicious Chewy Granola Bars Recipe

Chewy Granola Bars: Loaded with peanut butter, honey, crunchy nuts, and sweet M&Ms, these bars are a kid-approved, easy snack favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time35 Minutes

Cook Time3 Minutes

Total Time38 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings12 Servings (12 bars)

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (solid)
• ½ cup honey
• ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust if using salted nuts/PB)
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• ¼ cup shredded coconut
• ¾ cup roasted and salted cashews

Mix-ins

• 6 tablespoons mini chocolate chips, divided
• 6 tablespoons mini M&M’s, divided

Instructions

1. Prep Pan: Prepare an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing for overhang to easily lift out the finished product.
2. Make Binding Mixture: In a pot over medium heat, melt peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil. Simmer for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool for 3 minutes. Stir in salt and vanilla.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Coarsely chop cashews, then combine with oats, coconut, and cashews. Allow to cool for 15-25 minutes until slightly warm. Stir in ¼ cup of chocolate chips and M&M’s each.
4. Form Bars: Press mixture firmly into pan using measuring cup base. Sprinkle remaining chocolate chips and M&M’s on top, pressing lightly.
5. Set and Cut: Chill for 1 hour, then remove from pan using parchment paper and cut into 12 bars.