Nut-Free Chewy Granola Bars

Finally, a snack that’s as wholesome as it is delicious—these Nut-Free Chewy Granola Bars are the perfect solution for those seeking a nut-free, homemade alternative to store-bought bars. Packed with hearty rolled oats, crunchy sunflower and pumpkin seeds, chewy dried cranberries, and sweet apricots, these bars are naturally sweetened with honey and brown sugar for a hint of caramel-like flavor. A touch of cinnamon and vanilla elevates the taste, while unsweetened coconut flakes add subtle tropical notes. Easy to make in just 25 minutes, this recipe creates bars that are soft, chewy, and perfect for school lunchboxes, outdoor adventures, or an on-the-go energy boost. Best of all, these granola bars are completely kid-friendly, allergy-friendly, and can be stored for up to a week for convenient snacking.

Nutriscore Rating: 54/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 0.5 cup sunflower seeds
• 0.5 cup pumpkin seeds
• 0.5 cup dried cranberries
• 0.5 cup dried apricots, chopped
• 0.5 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
• 0.5 cup honey
• 0.25 cup brown sugar
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, dried apricots, and coconut flakes. Toss together until well mixed.

Step 3

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, brown sugar, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the sugar is dissolved and the butter is fully melted, forming a smooth mixture.

Step 4

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt.

Step 5

Pour the honey mixture over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or wooden spoon until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 6

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly with the back of the spoon or spatula to ensure the mixture is compact and even.

Step 7

Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown.

Step 8

Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then place the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set.

Step 9

Once set, lift the granola slab out of the pan using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board.

Step 10

Cut the slab into 12 equal-sized bars. Store the nut-free chewy granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	708.2 grams (708.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3015

Total Fat 145.40g	186%
Saturated Fat 60.30g	301%
Polyunsaturated Fat 38.00g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 682mg	30%
Total Carbohydrate 393.40g	143%
Dietary Fiber 51.50g	184%
Total Sugars 233.90g
Protein 70.00g	140%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 288mg	22%
Iron 21mg	117%
Potassium 3142mg	67%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.4%

Protein: 8.9%

Carbs: 49.8%