These healthy homemade granola bars are soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened without any refined sugar. Made with just four wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for quick breakfasts, lunchbox snacks, or a satisfying energy boost any time of day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Made with only four simple, natural ingredients
No refined sugar, syrups, or artificial sweeteners
Quick to prepare with no baking required
Naturally filling and energy-boosting
Easy to customize with flavors you love
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
rolled oats: 2 cups (160 g)
natural peanut butter (unsweetened): 1 cup (240 g)
pitted dates: 1 cup (150 g), tightly packed
pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Directions
Add the pitted dates to a food processor and blend until they form a thick, sticky paste. Scrape down the sides as needed.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and peanut butter. Stir until evenly mixed.
Add the date paste and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
Line an 8 x 8 inch (20 x 20 cm) pan with parchment paper.
Transfer the mixture to the pan and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or your hands.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
Remove from the pan and cut into bars using a sharp knife.
Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter
Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate flavor
Mix in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds or ground flaxseed for extra fiber
Replace vanilla extract with cinnamon for a warm, spiced taste
Storage/Reheating
Store the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months. Let frozen bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating. These bars do not require reheating.
FAQs
Can I make these granola bars without a food processor?
Yes, you can finely chop the dates by hand and mash them into a paste, though the texture may be slightly less smooth.
Are these granola bars suitable for kids?
Yes, they are naturally sweetened and made with simple ingredients, making them a great option for kids.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats will work, but the bars will be slightly softer in texture.
Do these granola bars need to be baked?
No, this is a no-bake recipe that sets in the refrigerator.
Can I make them nut-free?
You can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
How do I prevent the bars from crumbling?
Make sure to press the mixture very firmly into the pan and allow enough chilling time.
Are these granola bars vegan?
Yes, all ingredients used are plant-based.
Can I add dried fruit?
Yes, finely chopped dried fruit can be added, but it will increase sweetness.
Why are my bars too sticky?
Sticky bars usually mean they need more chilling time in the refrigerator.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger pan.
Conclusion
These 4-ingredient healthy homemade granola bars are proof that simple recipes can be both nutritious and delicious. With no refined sugar and minimal prep time, they are an easy, wholesome snack you can feel good about making and sharing.
These 4-ingredient healthy homemade granola bars are soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened with dates—no refined sugar or baking required. They’re perfect for breakfast, snacking, or an on-the-go energy boost.
Ingredients
2 cups (160 g) rolled oats
1 cup (240 g) natural peanut butter (unsweetened)
1 cup (150 g) pitted dates, tightly packed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Add pitted dates to a food processor and blend into a sticky paste, scraping down sides as needed.
In a large bowl, mix rolled oats and peanut butter until well combined.
Add the date paste and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix thoroughly until sticky and uniform.
Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper.
Transfer mixture to the pan and press down firmly with a spoon or hands.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
Remove from pan and cut into bars using a sharp knife.
Notes
Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
Mix in chia seeds or flaxseed for added fiber.
Swap vanilla for cinnamon for a spiced twist.
Press mixture firmly to avoid crumbling and chill thoroughly.
