3-Ingredient No-Bake Granola Bars {vegan, GF}

So-simple 3-ingredient no-bake granola bars! They are vegan, fruit-sweetened, gluten-free, oil-free, and customizable with various add-ins.

Recipe Benefits

Granola bar recipes abound on the web, but I am confident you will want to bookmark my latest rendition for a variety of reasons.

Topping the list: these granola bars are delicious! That should always be the starting point. In addition, these granola bars have the following attributes:

• 3 essential ingredients
• No-bake
• Vegan (egg-free, dairy-free)
• Gluten-free
• Fruit-sweetened
• Only 135 calories each
• Frugal
• Easy

I’m guessing (hoping!) I have your attention. If not, take a gander at these:

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient No-Bake Granola Bars

The exact amounts of each ingredient are indicated in the recipe card at the end of the post.

1. Rolled oats (old fashioned or quick-cooking, certified gluten-free, as needed)
2. Dates
3. Smooth nut butter or seed butter (e.g., peanut butter, almond butter, or my DIY sunflower seed butter or pepita butter)

Instead of syrup and sugar, I rely on dates, soaked in water and then processed into a paste. The soaking ensures that the sticky mix holds the oats in place. You will reserve some of the soaking liquid, too (one of my tricks).

A variety of dried fruits can be used in place of the dates. For example, dried apricots, prunes, or raisins.

Step By Step Instructions

Note that the complete directions are also in the recipe card below.

Step One: Prepare Baking Pan

Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang (for easy removal).

Step Two: Soak the Dates

Place the dates in a small bowl and cover with enough hot water to cover. Let stand 10 minutes.

Step Three: Toast the Oats (Optional Step)

You can use the oats straight from the package. But if you like, you can add more flavor by toasting the oats on the stovetop.

Spread the oats in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Cook and stir for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown and the oats smell toasty and nutty. Transfer oats to a large bowl.

Step Four: Process the Dates and Nut/Seed Butter

Drain the dates, reserving 1/3 cup soaking liquid. Process the driained dates in a small food processor or blender until smooth and pasty.

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Add the nut or seed butter and reserved soaking liquid. Process until blended and smooth.

Step Five: Combine the Oats & Date Mixture

Add the date mixture to the oats. Stir until blended and the oats are completely coated.

Step Six: Press Granola Bar Mixture into Pan

Transfer the oat mixture to the prepared pan. Very firmly tamp (press) mixture into the pan (use the bottom of another pan, or a measuring cup).

Step Seven: Chill & Cut

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely firm. Use parchmet liner to remove bars to a cutting board. Cut into 12 bars.

Storage for the Bars

Store the granola bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 weeks or the freezer for up to 6 months.

Customize the 3-Ingredient No-Bake Granola Bars

As with most granola bars, these bars are highly customize-able. Consider adding any of the following:

• Chopped dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, dried cherries, raisins)
• Chopped nuts or seeds
• Spices
• Extracts (e.g., vanilla, almond)
• Chocolate (chips or chunk, or melt and drizzle on top)

Happy snacking!

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