Pin it
These hearty Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Granola Bars take your favorite cookie flavors and turn them into a nutritious on-the-go option. They're made with good-for-you stuff but still give you that warm, comforting taste you crave, keeping your energy up all day long.
I tried making these so many times until I got it right. The magic happens when you mix just the right amounts of honey and coconut sugar together. Too much honey and they're just sticky messes, but nail the balance and you'll get that perfect cookie-like chew.
Key Components
- Old-fashioned oats: Gives that substantial base and structure
- Honey: Sweetens naturally while holding everything together
- Coconut oil: Adds the right amount of moisture
- Natural peanut butter: Packs in protein and helps everything stick
- Whole wheat flour: Holds the bars together (try almond flour if you can't do gluten)
- Plump raisins: Adds natural sweetness and juicy chewiness
- Pecans: Brings in that nice crunch and good fats
Step-By-Step Guide
- Setting Up The Foundation
- Get your oven hot at 350°F (175°C), Put parchment in an 8x8 pan for easy lifting, Heat the coconut oil just till it melts, Warm the honey a bit so it mixes better, Stir the oil, honey, and peanut butter till smooth, Mix in coconut sugar and cinnamon until they disappear
- Creating The Framework
- Slowly mix in whole wheat flour while stirring, Add the oats bit by bit in three batches, Make sure everything gets coated with the wet stuff, You want a thick mix that you can still stir
- Tossing In Extras
- Carefully fold those juicy raisins in, Throw in chopped pecans but save some for the top, Stir until everything's spread out nicely, Don't go crazy mixing or you'll mess up the texture
- Getting Ready For Baking
- Dump the mix into your lined pan, Push it down firmly with something flat, Don't forget to pack down the corners too, Sprinkle those leftover pecans on top, Press them in gently
- Oven Time
- Put the pan in your hot oven, Let it bake for 18-22 minutes until the edges look golden, The middle should still feel a little soft, Pull it out when you see the edges start to brown
- Finishing Touches
- Let it sit in the pan for 15 minutes, Use the parchment to lift everything out, Let it cool all the way on a rack, Slice into 12-16 bars with a sharp knife, Wipe the knife clean between cuts
Pin it
What's great about these bars is how flexible they are. Grab one for breakfast when you're in a rush, pack them for lunch, or munch on one when that afternoon energy dip hits. They show you don't have to choose between healthy and tasty.
Keeping Them Fresh
They'll stay good for a week if kept at room temp, or pop them in the freezer for up to three months. If you stack them, put some parchment between layers so they don't stick together.
Smart Tricks
Mix everything at room temperature for smoother blending, Brown your nuts in the oven first for extra flavor, Wait until they're completely cool before you try cutting them
When it comes down to it, these bars give you that warm, fuzzy feeling of biting into an oatmeal raisin cookie but with all the good stuff your body needs. They're perfect if you love that classic cookie flavor or just need something quick that'll actually fill you up and make you feel good.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap honey for something else?
- Yes, maple syrup works too but makes the bars softer, so they might crumble a little more.
- → Is chilling really important?
- Yes, it helps everything hold together. Skipping it can leave you with a messy mix instead of solid bars.
- → Are quick oats okay?
- Stick with old-fashioned oats if you can—they keep the texture right. Quick oats can make things feel dense and dry.
- → Which nuts should I use?
- Chop up your favorites—almonds, walnuts, pecans—or leave them out completely if you prefer.
- → How do I keep the bars from falling apart?
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan and let it chill completely before slicing!