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Chewy Homemade Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips

chewy homemade granola bars with chocolate chips - featured image

These chewy homemade granola bars with chocolate chips are a quick, easy, and kid-approved snack perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up. They have a comforting, slightly sticky texture with just the right hit of chocolate.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180g) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/3 cup (113g) honey
  • 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips (semi-sweet recommended)
  • 1/3 cup (40g) chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or almonds)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups (180g) rolled oats, 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, 1/4 tsp salt, and optional chopped nuts. Stir until evenly distributed.
  3. Melt 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl until just liquid (about 20-30 seconds).
  4. Add 1/3 cup (113g) honey and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the melted butter and stir well.
  5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until all oats are coated and the mixture feels sticky and holds together when pressed.
  6. Gently fold in 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press firmly into an even, compact layer about 1 inch thick.
  8. Bake for 18-20 minutes until edges are golden and the center is still soft but not wet.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes to set.
  10. Use the parchment overhang to lift the granola slab out. Cut into 10-12 bars with a sharp knife.
  11. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Do not overbake to keep bars chewy. Press mixture firmly into pan for best texture. Let bars cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling. For cleaner slices, chill bars for 15 minutes before cutting. Substitute coconut oil for butter and maple syrup for honey for a vegan version. Use gluten-free oats for gluten-free bars. Fold chocolate chips in last to prevent melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: granola bars, homemade granola bars, chewy granola bars, chocolate chip granola bars, easy snack, healthy snack, kid-friendly snack