Are you searching for a healthy and convenient snack that aligns with your paleo lifestyle? Look no further! These easy-to-make paleo granola bars are packed with nutritious ingredients, providing a satisfying and energy-boosting treat for both kids and adults. Say goodbye to store-bought granola bars loaded with processed sugars and unhealthy additives, and embrace the goodness of homemade, grain-free goodness.
Why Choose Paleo Granola Bars?
Most traditional granola bars are not paleo-friendly because they contain oats and refined sugars. Paleo granola bars offer a delicious alternative, free from grains, gluten, and processed ingredients. They are loaded with nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners, providing a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Whether you're following a paleo diet or simply looking for a healthier snack option, these granola bars are a perfect choice.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about making your own paleo granola bars is the ability to customize them to your liking. You can get as creative as you'd like with what kind of nuts and seeds you use! This granola bar recipe is so flexible that you can use any dried fruits, nuts and seeds you have on hand, just be sure to use the same proportions.
Nuts and Seeds
I decided to add a combination of both nuts and seeds to this recipe. I did this because of both taste and texture preferences I have. Any combination of nuts or seeds will work in this recipe. The recipe calls for 2 cups of nuts, and any combination will work. They can also be made with a single nut, like almonds, if you like.
Here are some ideas:
Read also: Paleo Granola Recipes
- Almonds
- Pecans
- Walnuts
- Cashews
- Pumpkin seeds (or sunflower seeds)
- Flax seeds (ground)
- Chia seeds
- Hemp hearts
Sweeteners
The sweetness can be adjustable to your personal preference.
Here are some ideas:
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Coconut sugar
- Date syrup
- Molasses
Optional Add-Ins
- Dried cranberries
- Raisins
- Mini chocolate chips (dairy-free)
- Coconut flakes
- Orange zest
No-Bake Paleo Granola Bars
These no bake, chewy peanut butter granola bars are a breeze to make and so addicting! They’re gluten free and grain free, with both vegan and paleo options.
Ingredients
- Melted coconut oil
- Peanut butter (or almond butter for strict paleo)
- Honey or maple syrup
- Vanilla extract
- Nuts and seeds of your choice
Instructions
- Place the melted coconut oil in a medium bowl and whisk in the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup. Once mixture is smooth and well combined, stir in the vanilla.
- Pour the wet mixture into the large bowl with the dry ingredients and stir to fully combine - I used a silicone spatula for this step. Thoroughly mix to make sure all the dry mixture is coated.
- Line an 8 x 8” or 9 x 9” square pan with parchment paper along the bottom and sides, with extra up the sides for easy removal.
- Using a long very sharp knife, cut into 15-20 bars.
- Bars will start to melt around room temp due to the coconut oil, so they’ll need to be kept chilled to stay firm.
Baked Paleo Granola Bars
Chewy, crunchy, sweet and salty, these grain free and paleo no bake granola bars are going to become your favorite with the first bite!
Ingredients
- Nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
- Raw coconut chips
- Pumpkin seeds
- Golden ground flaxseed
- Coconut oil
- Almond butter
- Maple syrup
- Coconut sugar
- Cinnamon
- Salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Set aside this granola bar pan atop a medium baking sheet (for stability in the oven.) Or, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or greased foil. I prefer using the granola bar pan; it creates a firmer bar with deliciously crispy edges & a chewy, crisp exterior. Set aside for later.
- Add all dry ingredients to a large bowl: nuts, coconut, pumpkin seeds, flaxseed, and cinnamon & salt (if using). Stir until well mixed.
- Add all wet ingredients to a medium bowl: coconut sugar, coconut oil, almond butter and maple syrup. Whisk until well incorporated.
- Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, stir and fold until very well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared granola bar pan or baking pan. For the granola bar pan: scoop about 3 tablespoons of mixture into each crevice. Use a small, narrow spoon to press the mixture down into an evenly, very tightly packed layer. For the square baking pan: using the spatula, press mixture firmly down into an even, very tightly packed layer.
- Bake for 22-27 minutes. Mine took 25 minutes. Place granola bar pan + baking sheet, or baking pan, onto a cooling rack to cool for 50-60 minutes, or until completely firm.
- Then… for the granola bar pan: remove bars from pan and transfer directly onto a cooling rack; for the baking pan: lift bars and parchment paper onto the cooling rack. Allow to finish cooling for 1-2 hours. Slice into 12-18 bars (for baking pan only). Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Pack it in: You really want to pack it in tightly to get nice dense chewy bars. One important tip is to pack them tightly- press them down in the pan before baking, after baking, and even press them together after cutting if needed. This helps ensure they stay together if you’re carrying them around.
- Cool completely: This step is very important! The bars will harden as they cool.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for longer storage.
Vegan Adaptations
- Honey: Substitute maple syrup, date syrup, or molasses for the honey.
- Chocolate chips: Use dairy-free chocolate chips or cacao nibs.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy as a quick breakfast on the go.
- Pack in your child's lunchbox for a healthy snack.
- Serve with afternoon tea or as a dessert.
- Crumble over yogurt or smoothie bowls.
Read also: Paleo Diet Delivered: What You Need to Know
Read also: Paleo Mayonnaise Recipe