I love this recipe because it takes just minutes to prepare and requires zero baking. The texture is perfectly chewy with just enough crunch, and the flavor is endlessly adaptable. Whether I use almonds, cranberries, or a handful of chocolate chips, these bars always turn out delicious. They’re much healthier than store-bought versions, made with natural ingredients and no preservatives. Plus, they’re great for meal prep — I can make a batch on Sunday and have snacks ready for the week.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
1 cup rolled oats 1/2 cup mixed nuts (like almonds, walnuts, cashews) 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds 1/4 cup dried fruit (like cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots) 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup 1/4 cup nut butter (like peanut butter or almond butter) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch of salt
Directions
I start by combining the rolled oats, mixed nuts, seeds, and dried fruit in a large mixing bowl. This forms the base of the granola bars and gives them that satisfying trail mix crunch.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the honey or maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick but pourable — it acts as the glue that holds everything together.
Next, I pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. I make sure there are no dry spots so the bars stick together properly once chilled.
I line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into the pan, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon or my hands. The more firmly I press, the better the bars will hold their shape.
Then, I refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm and set. Once chilled, I lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into 8–10 bars. They’re ready to eat right away or store for later.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 8–10 granola bars and takes around 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 hour of chilling time for the bars to set.
Variations
I often customize these bars depending on my mood. Sometimes I add mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. For a boost of omega-3s, I mix in chia or flax seeds. When I want a more indulgent version, I drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top. I’ve even swapped out the nut butter for sunflower seed butter to make them nut-free for school lunches.
Storage/Reheating
I store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If I need them to last longer, I freeze them individually wrapped for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to eat, I let one thaw at room temperature for a few minutes — they’re just as chewy and flavorful as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I make these granola bars vegan?
Yes, I use maple syrup instead of honey to keep them completely vegan.
Can I make them nut-free?
Absolutely. I replace the nut butter with sunflower seed butter and use seeds instead of nuts.
How do I make the bars firmer?
I add a tablespoon or two of chia seeds or flax seeds to help bind them better.
Can I toast the oats and nuts first?
Yes, I sometimes toast them for a few minutes in the oven to enhance the flavor.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
How long do they need to chill?
I chill them for at least an hour, though two hours gives the best firmness.
Can I add protein powder?
Definitely, I add one scoop of my favorite protein powder for extra nutrition.
What kind of dried fruit works best?
I like cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots, or dried cherries for a pop of sweetness.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, brown rice syrup or agave syrup both work as substitutes for honey or maple syrup.
How can I make them more chocolatey?
I mix in cocoa powder or drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top after chilling.
Conclusion
These Trail Mix Granola Bars are one of my favorite no-bake snacks — simple, versatile, and incredibly satisfying. I love how they pack a mix of chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and naturally sweet fruit into every bite. Whether I’m heading out for a hike, grabbing breakfast on the go, or just craving something wholesome and sweet, these bars always hit the spot.
Chewy, crunchy, and naturally sweet, these Trail Mix Granola Bars are a delicious no-bake snack made with oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Perfect for meal prep, quick breakfasts, or on-the-go energy boosts, they’re easy to make and endlessly customizable.
Author:Amy
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield:8–10 bars
Category:Snack
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews)
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds
1/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, mixed nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
In a separate bowl, whisk together honey or maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until evenly coated.
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm and set.
Lift out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 8–10 bars.
Enjoy immediately or store for later snacking.
Notes
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version.
Make nut-free bars by using sunflower seed butter and extra seeds.
For extra flavor, toast oats and nuts before mixing.
Add chia seeds, flax seeds, or protein powder for a nutritional boost.
Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an indulgent touch.
