Apple Peanut Butter Granola Bars (Printable)

Soft chewy bars with apple, oats and creamy peanut butter. No baking required for this easy wholesome snack.

# What You’ll Need:

→ 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 for vegan option)
10 - 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
11 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# Directions:

01 - Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on all sides for easy removal later.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, crispy rice cereal, chopped dried apple, shredded coconut, peanuts, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute all ingredients evenly.
03 - Combine the peanut butter, honey, and melted coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or heat in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth and pourable. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
04 - Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir continuously with a spatula until every component is evenly coated with the wet mixture.
05 - Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or clean hands, press firmly and evenly across the entire surface to compact the bars tightly.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the bars are completely firm and set.
07 - Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • You can make these start to finish in fifteen minutes flat
  • The apple and cinnamon combo tastes like cozy fall comfort food
  • No oven required perfect for hot days or tiny kitchens
02 -
  • Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is crucial or bars will crumble
  • These need full chilling time to set properly so plan ahead
03 -
  • Wet your hands before pressing the mixture to prevent sticking
  • Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the mixture evenly

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