Nut-Free Granola Bars Honey Oats (Printable)

Soft oat bars featuring honey, seeds, and dried fruit. Great for beach days or as a portable snack.

# What You Need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
03 - 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
04 - 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
05 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins, roughly chopped
06 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
07 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Wet Ingredients

09 - 1/2 cup honey
10 - 1/4 cup sunflower seed butter or tahini
11 - 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
12 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chopped dried cranberries or raisins, chocolate chips if used, salt, and cinnamon.
03 - In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together honey, sunflower seed butter or tahini, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and gently warmed.
04 - Pour the warmed honey mixture over the combined dry ingredients. Mix well with a spatula until all components are evenly coated.
05 - Transfer mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or measuring cup to compact the surface.
06 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until edges turn golden brown.
07 - Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Use the parchment overhang to lift out, then cut into 12 uniform bars.
08 - Transfer bars to an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Even the most skeptical snackers can't resist its chewy texture and gentle sweetness.
  • The ingredients are easy to swap, so every batch is a little unique and clearing out the pantry feels purposeful.
02 -
  • If you try to cut the bars before they're totally cool, expect sticky messes and broken edges—I've learned this with impatient hands.
  • Toasting your oats and seeds before mixing is worth the extra step; flavor pops and texture improves instantly.
03 -
  • Let the bars cool in the pan without moving them—they set perfectly this way.
  • Using a serrated knife for slicing prevents breaks and keeps the bars neat.
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