Chocolate Chip and Coconut No-Bake Granola Bars

no-bake granola bars are a delicious and easy snack perfect for any time of day. Packed with chocolate chips and coconut, they’re both sweet and satisfying without any oven time required.

Cooking Tips You Should Know

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture and chewiness.
Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together better.
If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more honey or nut butter to bind it.

Ingredients 0/9

12 ounces dates, pitted ¼ cup water, or as needed 3 cups rolled oats 1 ½ cups whole raw almonds ½ cup salted sunflower seeds 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 cup almond butter 1 cup unsweetened applesauce 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Why This Recipe Is So Tasty

These bars are a perfect blend of sweet and crunchy with the rich taste of chocolate and the tropical flavor of coconut. They come together quickly without any baking, making them an easy and satisfying snack for busy days or on-the-go moments.

Directions

Lin a 9x13-inch baking dish with wax paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal later. In a food processor or blender, combine the dates and water, blending until you get a smooth paste—add a little more water if it feels too thick. In a big bowl, mix together the oats, coconut, chocolate chips, almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and cinnamon. Then add the date paste, almond butter, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Use your hands to mix everything really well until all the wet ingredients are fully combined with the dry. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared dish. Cover the top with another sheet of wax paper and press down evenly using a rolling pin or a can to compact it. Pop it in the freezer for about an hour. Once it’s set, lift the whole thing out using the edges of the wax paper and cut into 25 bars.

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By David Brown

David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.

What To Serve With This Dish

Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast with a glass of milk or your favorite coffee. They also make a great afternoon pick-me-up or a post-workout snack to refuel and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Leftover Storage Guide

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge where they will stay firm and delicious for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them individually wrapped for up to three months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?

Yes, you can substitute almonds with walnuts, pecans, or cashews based on your preference.

How long do these bars last?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make these bars without a food processor?

You can finely chop the dates and nuts by hand, but a food processor makes it easier to get a smooth date paste and well-mixed ingredients.

Is it possible to make these bars vegan?

Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, so the bars are naturally vegan.

Can I skip the applesauce or replace it?

Applesauce adds moisture; you can replace it with mashed banana or pumpkin puree if preferred.

Do I have to freeze the bars?

Freezing helps the bars set firmly, but you can refrigerate them for a few hours as an alternative.

Can I add chocolate chips and coconut if they are not listed in the ingredients?

Yes, adding chocolate chips and shredded coconut enhances flavor and texture, so feel free to include them.

What can I use if I don’t have almond butter?

You can substitute with peanut butter or any other nut or seed butter you like.