Let’s talk snacks. I don’t know about you, but between appointments, errands, and life chaos in general, I live for a solid grab-and-go snack. These Gluten-Free Granola Bars have become one of my absolute favorites—and they’re so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the boxed kind.
They’re made with just a handful of pantry staples: gluten-free oats, honey, peanut butter, mini chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. No preservatives, no gluten, no stress.
And if you want to level them up? There’s an optional step to add a melted chocolate base that turns these from a basic snack into a low-key dessert.
đź›’ Ingredients
(Makes 12 bars)
- 2 cups certified gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan-friendly version)
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup extra chocolate chips for melting (for the bottom chocolate layer)
- Add-ins: chia seeds, shredded coconut, chopped nuts (optional)
🍯 Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and salt. Warm in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds to make it easier to stir, then mix until smooth.
- Stir in the gluten-free oats until everything is evenly coated.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in the mini chocolate chips.
- Optional chocolate bottom layer: Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each. Spread a thin layer across the bottom of a parchment-lined 8×8 or 9×9 dish and let it chill in the fridge for about 5 minutes before adding the oat mixture on top.
- Press the oat mixture firmly over the chocolate (or directly into the pan if skipping the chocolate). Use another piece of parchment or a spatula to flatten and pack it down tight.
- Chill the whole thing in the fridge for at least 1 hour until firm. Then slice into bars and enjoy!
âś… Tips & Variations
- Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes if you want them toasted instead of no-bake
- Swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower butter for allergy-friendly versions
- Stir in chia seeds, flaxseed, or even a scoop of protein powder
- Want them even more chocolatey? Press extra chips on top before chilling
🧊 Storage Tips
- Store bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week
- Wrap and freeze for grab-and-go snacks for up to 2 months
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Whether you need an energy boost, something to keep the kids happy, or a secretly healthy treat that feels like dessert—these gluten-free granola bars with optional chocolate bottom hit the spot every time.
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