How to Make Homemade Granola Bars

Store-bought granola bars might be convenient, but they often come packed with hidden sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavors. Luckily, making your own at home is simpler than you might think and totally worth the effort. This easy homemade granola bar recipe is naturally sweetened, loaded with wholesome ingredients, and customizable to your favorite dried fruits and nuts. Plus, they make a perfect grab-and-go snack or post-workout bite.

Why Homemade Is Better

When you make granola bars yourself, you control every ingredient. That means:

• No unnecessary additives

• Lower sugar content than many packaged brands

• Whole food ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit

• Customizable flavors for your preferences or dietary needs

Bonus: They’re easy to make in big batches and store beautifully, making them ideal for weekly meal prep.

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe yields 12 to 16 bars, depending on how you slice them. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups old-fashioned oatmeal

• 1 cup sliced almonds

• 1 cup shredded coconut (loosely packed)

• 1/2 cup toasted wheat germ

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2/3 cup honey

• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (lightly packed)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 cup chopped pitted dates

• 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the dry ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F.

• Butter an 8x12-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

• Spread oats, almonds, and coconut on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.

• Transfer to a large mixing bowl and stir in the wheat germ.

2. Make the binder

• Reduce oven temperature to 300°F.

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt.

• Bring to a gentle boil and stir continuously for about 1 minute.

3. Mix and shape

• Pour the warm syrup over the toasted oat mixture.

• Add dates, apricots, and cranberries. Stir well to combine.

• Pour into the prepared baking dish. Use wet fingers to press the mixture evenly and firmly.

4. Bake and cool

• Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.

• Let cool in the pan for 2 to 3 hours. This step is essential for clean, sturdy bars that won’t fall apart when sliced.

5. Cut and serve

• Once fully cooled, cut into squares or bars of your desired size. Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer shelf life.

Tips for Customizing

Want to make them your own? Try these simple swaps:

• Replace almonds with walnuts or pecans

• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different flavor profile

• Sub in mini chocolate chips for the dried fruit if you're feeling indulgent

• Add chia seeds or flaxseed for a nutritional boost

The Bottom Line

These homemade granola bars are proof that nourishing snacks can also taste amazing. Whether you're fueling a busy day or looking for a post-gym pick-me-up, this easy recipe is sure to satisfy.

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