Wholesome bars with oats, nuts, dried fruits, and natural sweeteners, ready without baking.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
02 - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
03 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
04 - 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
05 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
→ Wet Ingredients
06 - 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
07 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - Pinch of salt
# How To Make:
01 - Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, shredded coconut, and chia seeds if using until evenly distributed.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm peanut or almond butter with honey or maple syrup until smooth, then stir in vanilla extract and salt.
04 - Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly to ensure even coating.
05 - Transfer mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly with a spatula or hands to form an even, compact layer.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until mixture is firm and set.
07 - Lift the set mixture from pan using parchment overhang and cut into 12 bars. Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
