These Vegan Granola Bars are a perfect and delicious snack! Gluten-free and homemade with wholesome ingredients—no dairy or eggs!
Though I usually try to have a good breakfast, on busy weekday mornings, I sometimes find myself looking at the clock and wondering where the time went. While packing my lunch, I’ll realize I haven’t even had breakfast—and that’s not a good thing. Sure, some people can manage on coffee alone. But me? Not the case! That’s why these vegan granola bars are such a lifesaver. If I whip up a batch on Sunday night, I can rest assured that I will not be arriving at work on an empty stomach. Designating them solely as a breakfast food wouldn’t be doing them justice, however. In fact, they’re perfect at any time of day! I love one as an evening snack with a big mug of herbal tea, and they’re great as a post-gym snack, too!
Perfectly sweet and chewy, with little swirls of peanut butter and chocolate bursts in EVERY bite, these vegan granola bars really are as good as they look. One batch gives you 12 gorgeous bars that will keep you satisfied, without all the additives that store-bought varieties can have.
Are These Vegan Granola Bars Healthy?
While they contain chocolate chips and are sweetened with maple syrup and molasses (let’s not kid ourselves, these are still sugars), I wouldn’t put these bars in the naughty corner when it comes to their wholesomeness. They’re made with oats, which are a good source of fiber, and they’re relatively low in fat and calories.
If you want to make them a little healthier, you can leave out the puffed rice and make them with only oats. You can also replace the maple syrup and molasses with either the same amount of unsweetened applesauce or one small banana (very ripe and mashed). In that case, add this in right before you stir in the oats. Using an all-natural sweetener, like pure date syrup, is also an option. If you have a nut allergy, feel free to replace the peanut butter with tahini. If you are gluten-free, be sure to purchase oats that are certified gluten-free!
Fun Flavor Variations
What I love most about this recipe is how it can easily be tweaked to create a new flavor every time. In the autumn, I’ll add two teaspoons of fragrant pumpkin spices, replace the chocolate chips with chopped pecans, and add in some pumpkin seeds. Another great idea is to make a mocha variation by leaving out the craisins and adding in extra chocolate chips along with one tablespoon of espresso powder and one tablespoon of cocoa powder. And how about an apple-cinnamon bar? Just add two teaspoons of cinnamon and replace the chocolate chips and craisins with dried apples. And my all-time favorite? When I’m really in the mood to treat myself and turn these into something really special, I’ll replace the peanut butter with almond butter, and add two tablespoons shredded coconut instead of the craisins. Once the bars are cooled and sliced, I’ll dip one side into melted chocolate and pop them back into the fridge so the chocolate sets. Incredibly delicious!
How to Make Ahead And Store
These delicious vegan-friendly granola bars are the perfect, energy-boosting breakfast or snack ANYTIME of day. To store them, simply place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They will last even longer in the freezer. I recommend wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then tossing them all in a Ziploc bag. They will be good for up to 3 months this way!
Serving Suggestions
Smoothies and a breakfast bar will set your day off to a great start. Try these vegan granola bars with a frothy Coffee Smoothie for an energizing morning, or opt for a creamy Banana Smoothie (which can easily be made vegan). Breakfast bars also make an excellent post-lunch treat. They’re lovely after a bowl of silky Sweet Potato Soup or a hearty Fattoush Salad.
Ingredients
- 4 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons vegan butter
- 1 1/2 tablespoons molasses
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
- 3/4 cup puffed rice cereal
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons dairy-free mini chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons craisins
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving enough to hang over the edges of the pan.
- Combine the maple syrup, peanut butter, butter and molasses in a large pot on medium heat and bring to a simmer.
- Once simmering cook, stirring constantly until it just starts to thicken, only 10-20 seconds. Remove from heat.
- Whisk in the vanilla. Then, add in all the other ingredients except the chocolate chips and craisins.
- Once mixed well, stir in the chocolate chips and craisins.
- Press into the prepared pan VERY firmly (you don't want the bars to break apart!).
- Chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours until firm.
- Slice and DEVOUR!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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