If you’re looking for a wholesome, delicious, and energizing snack, these best vegan granola bars are exactly what you need. Perfect for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or post-workout fuel, these bars combine natural sweetness with crunchy textures that satisfy every craving.
Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, they’re free from refined sugars and artificial additives, making them a guilt-free treat for both kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re vegan, gluten-sensitive, or just love snacking healthily, this recipe is easy to customize and super versatile. You’ll love how these bars hold together perfectly without eggs or dairy, thanks to a smart blend of nuts, seeds, and natural binders like maple syrup and nut butter.
Plus, they store beautifully, so you can prepare a batch ahead of time for the week.
Ready to boost your snack game? Let’s dive into this simple, nourishing recipe that will soon become your go-to granola bar for every occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These vegan granola bars are a fantastic blend of taste, nutrition, and convenience. Here’s why they stand out:
- All-natural and wholesome: No artificial preservatives or refined sugars.
- Easy to make: No baking skills needed, just simple mixing and chilling.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even vegan chocolate chips.
- Energy-packed: A perfect balance of complex carbs, healthy fats, and protein.
- Great for on-the-go: Portable and mess-free, ideal for lunches, hikes, or travel.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup raw almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup raw walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- 8×8-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife for slicing
- Microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan (for melting peanut butter)
Instructions
- Prepare your pan: Line the 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out easily once set.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, shredded coconut, dried cranberries, cinnamon, and sea salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all the ingredients.
- Melt the wet ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat in a saucepan, gently warm the peanut butter and maple syrup until smooth and pourable. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the melted peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, mix thoroughly until every oat and nut is coated and sticky.
- Press into pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Using the back of a spoon or your hands (dampened with water to prevent sticking), press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together.
- Chill to set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm enough to cut.
- Slice and serve: Carefully lift the granola slab out using the parchment overhang. Place on a cutting board and slice into bars or squares with a sharp knife.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips & Variations
“To make these bars nut-free, swap the almonds and walnuts for extra seeds like chia or flax. Adding a tablespoon of ground flaxseed also boosts omega-3 content and helps bind the bars better.”
- Use almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
- Add vegan chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a touch of indulgence.
- Include superfoods like hemp seeds, chia seeds, or goji berries to increase nutrition.
- Drizzle melted dark vegan chocolate on top after chilling for a decadent twist.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup depending on your preference.
- For a tropical vibe, replace cranberries with chopped dried mango or pineapple.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per bar (1/12 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 7g (from maple syrup and dried fruit) |
Serving Suggestions
These vegan granola bars are perfect on their own or paired with a refreshing drink. Here are some ways to enjoy them:
- Enjoy as a quick breakfast on the go with a cup of Magic Dough Recipe smoothie.
- Pack alongside fresh fruit for a balanced lunchbox treat.
- Serve with a warm cup of herbal tea or your favorite plant-based milk coffee.
- Crumble over vegan yogurt or a bowl of fresh berries for a crunchy topping.
- Take with you on hikes or long trips for a nutritious, energizing snack.
Conclusion
Making your own vegan granola bars is a rewarding and simple way to fuel your day with clean, wholesome ingredients. This recipe offers a perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and nutrition that will satisfy your snack cravings without compromising your dietary choices.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can easily swap ingredients to tailor the bars to your taste and dietary needs.
By preparing these bars at home, you skip the additives and extra sugars found in store-bought options, saving money and staying healthier. For more delicious vegan recipes and creative ideas, check out the Julie Marie Eats Recipes or explore other favorites like the delightful Marzipan Challah Recipe.
Happy snacking!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Granola Bars
Description: These homemade vegan granola bars are chewy, nutritious, and perfect for on-the-go snacks. Made with wholesome ingredients and naturally sweetened.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix oats, nuts, seeds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a small bowl, whisk almond butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Pour wet mixture over dry ingredients and stir until combined.
- Press mixture firmly into a lined 8×8 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 20 g
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