So, we’ve all grown up snacking on granola bars. And, there’s a good chance we still shove one or two in our purse as we’re headed out the door. They’re so convenient! But, many brands include a long list of ingredients, including corn syrup and inflammatory oils, and they might not be gluten free. Some boast a few grams of fiber and a little protein, but they’re mostly carbs and sugar. In the snack world- they’re not too bad…but also not very good for you.

But, what if we could quickly make our own homemade granola bars?!? Then, we could control the flavor, as well as the quality and quantity of each ingredient. By adding cashews, chia seeds and some protein powder, I was able to boost the protein and fiber content. And, they are sweetened with just a little brown sugar and honey. These no-bake oat bars make a convenient and healthy snack you can feel good about eating!

Oh, and there’s no baking required! For the best results, you will need a food processor. I haven't tested it, but theoretically, you could make these without a food processor. You would need to finely chop the dry ingredients and then stir everything together in a large mixing bowl. Otherwise, it’s just a little melting of coconut oil in the microwave and blending everything together.

A cross between a granola bar and Heavenly Hunks, these cranberry orange no-bake oats bars will become your new snacking favorite!

Simply process, press, slice, and enjoy!

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No-Bake Oat Bar Flavors

• Chocolate Chip
• Peanut Butter
• Butterscotch
• Carrot Cake
• White Chocolate Raspberry
• Lemon
• Key Lime
• Cranberry Orange
• Cranberry White Chocolate
• GF Cookies & Cream

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What You'll Need to Make Gluten Free No-Bake Oat Bars

• Old-Fashioned or Rolled Oats
• Cashews
• Brown Sugar
• Maple Syrup or Honey
• Orange Juice
• Protein Powder
• Chia Seeds
• Coconut Oil
• Dried Cranberries
• White Chocolate Chips

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How to Make No-Bake Oat Bars

1. In a food processor, add the cashews and pulse lightly. Then, add the oats, brown sugar, chia seeds, and protein powder. Again, pulse together. Next, add the honey, coconut oil, orange juice, dried cranberries, and white chocolate chips. Pulse until mixed and mixture feels wet and sticks together when pressed. If needed, you can put mixture into a large mixing bowl and continue mixing with a spatula. 
2. Press oats into a lined 9x9 baking dish, lined with parchment paper. Use fingers and/or the bottom of a measuring cup to press the oats down. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. Finally, cut and enjoy!

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Organic Oats

I recommend using organic rolled or old-fashioned oats for this recipe. Oats are known to often be treated with glyphosate, which is a pesticide. The levels vary by quite a bit based on the brand. Organic oats could still have trace amounts of glyphosate, but when tested most organic oats have very low or non-existent levels of glyphosate. Some brands certify that they are glyphosate- free: One Degree Organic Oats, 365 by Whole Foods Market Oats, Bob’s Red Mill Organic Oats

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How to Keep Oat Bars From Falling Apart

The best way to keep oat bars together is to use coconut oil and/or a creamy nut butter. You can also add maple syrup, honey, butter, or dates to help keep the granola mixture together.

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Storing No-Bake Oat Bars

I recommend storing these oat bars in the fridge for up to 1 week. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking together. You can also wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

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Craving more???

Gluten Free Lemon Raspberry Scones

Gluten Free Peach Baked Oatmeal

Gluten Free Mini Lemon Loaves