No Bake Apple Peanut Butter Granola Bars (Print version)

Soft, chewy bars loaded with apple, oats, and peanut butter. No baking required—just chill and enjoy for a wholesome homemade snack.

# Ingredient List:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1 cup crispy rice cereal
03 - 1/2 cup dried apple, finely chopped
04 - 1/3 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
05 - 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

08 - 1/2 cup natural creamy peanut butter
09 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
10 - 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
11 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# How To Make It:

01 - Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add oats, rice cereal, dried apple, shredded coconut, chopped peanuts, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to distribute evenly.
03 - Place peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan. Warm gently until smooth and runny, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
04 - Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly with a spatula until all components are evenly coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
05 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Use a spatula or clean hands to press firmly and evenly, compacting the mixture tightly to ensure bars hold their shape.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until completely firm and set.
07 - Using the parchment overhang, lift the solid block from the pan. Cut into 12 equal-sized bars with a sharp knife.
08 - Keep bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for best texture and freshness.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • No oven required, which means they come together faster than you can debate ordering takeout
  • The chewy texture and cozy apple cinnamon combo feels like eating fall comfort food without the heavy post-meal slump
02 -
  • Pressing the mixture into the pan with serious pressure is the difference between bars that hold together and ones that crumble the second you touch them
  • These absolutely need that hour in the fridge, so plan ahead and don't try rushing the process
03 -
  • Wet your hands slightly before pressing the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking
  • Let the bars sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before cutting if they're too hard straight from the fridge

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