By: Dèlia Rubio
Honestly, snacking is one of my favorite things, but finding healthy, easy-to-make, and delicious snacks has always been a challenge. Let’s be real, there are way too many vegan snacks that taste bad, and if they actually taste good, they’re usually not healthy.
So after researching for a long time, I discovered Carleigh from @plantyou, and I instantly fell in love with her recipes. I even picked up her new cookbook, Scrappy Cooking, and I can't recommend it enough!
One recipe that has quickly become a favorite is her easy no-bake vegan granola bars. They’re such a hit that even my friends have been asking for the recipe! These bars are not only super simple to whip up but they’re also packed with flavor. If you’re like me and often find yourself racing out the door in the morning, these granola bars are the perfect solution. They’re chewy, plant-based, and ready in just 10 minutes. Seriously, they’re a game-changer! Here’s everything you need to know to make a batch that’ll last you the whole month!
Why These Granola Bars Are the Best
No Oven? No Problem:These bars don’t need baking,just mix, relax, and you’re done! Ideal for small spaces like college dorms.
Simple & Allergy-Friendly: Made mostly from oats, they’re affordable and easy to adapt for gluten-free and lactose-free diets.
Chocolate + Strawberry = Chef’s Kiss: This combo is a game-changer, adding just the right sweetness and crunch.
Perfect for Meal Prep: You get 24 bars per batch, so you’re set for the month. Pop extras in the freezer, and you’ll have snacks ready whenever you need them.
Ingredients List
● 5 cups oats, rolled or instant: The base ingredient, is budget-friendly and naturally gluten-free if you need certified ones.
● 4 tbsp ground flax: Adds fiber, a hint of earthiness, and omega-3s for a boost.
● 2 cups smooth peanut butter, or nut butter of choice: Binds everything together
while adding protein and creamy texture.
● 11⁄4 cups maple syrup: The natural sweetener that adds flavor and binds the mix.
● 2⁄3 cup mini chocolate chips, dark, plant-based + 2⁄3 cup freeze-dried strawberries,
chopped: A little sweetness and crunch to make these bars truly irresistible. Sprinkle salt, to taste.
Equipment
● Baking Sheet
● Parchment Paper
● mixing bowl
● Spatula
● Sharp knife
Tips to Make These Bars Yours
● Nut-Free Version: Swap peanut butter for sunflower or pumpkin seed butter if you’re avoiding nuts.
● Extra Flavor Boost: Try swapping maple syrup for strawberry syrup if you’re a big strawberry fan!
● Get Creative: Think of this as your starter recipe! Throw in extras like raisins, coconut flakes, or even chopped nuts if you want a different vibe.
How to Make Your Own Chewy Granola Bars
Combine Dry Ingredients: Start by mixing oats and flaxseeds in a large bowl.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add peanut butter and maple syrup to the mix, get ready
for an arm workout to mix it all up until you get a sticky texture.
Add the Fun Stuff: Fold in chocolate chips and freeze-dried strawberries gently.
Press and Set:Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spread the mix evenly, and press it down until smooth.
Chill & Cut: Pop it in the fridge for an hour to firm up, then cut it into bars.
Storage Tips
● Fridge: Keep your bars in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for 5-7 days.
● Freezer: For longer storage, separate each bar with parchment paper and freeze
them for up to a month. These bars make mornings so much easier and keep me from reaching for unhealthy snacks throughout the day. Huge shoutout to Carleigh from @plantyou for this awesome recipe! Let me know if you give them a try or experiment with fun add-ins!
Comments