These Healthy Granola Bars are a game-changer for anyone seeking a wholesome, guilt-free snack. Packed with nutty richness and a hint of natural sweetness, they’re sugar-free and grain-free without sacrificing flavor. The chewy texture, studded with crunchy seeds and soft dried fruit, makes every bite satisfying. Perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up, they’re ready in just 50 minutes, with most of that time hands-off.
What makes these bars truly special is their versatility—customize them with your favorite nuts, seeds, or spices. Warm cinnamon and vanilla notes blend beautifully with the earthy undertones of almond butter. Whether you’re fueling up for a workout or need a quick energy boost, these bars deliver nutrition and taste in every bite. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll wonder why you ever bought store-bought versions!
Ingredients for Healthy Granola Bars
- 2 cups (10oz/184g) slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup (2 ½oz/71g) walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup (2 ½oz/71g) pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup (1oz/28g) shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1/3 cup (1 ½oz/43g) pumpkin seeds
- 1/3 cup (1 ½oz/43g) sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup (1 ½oz/43g) ground flax
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil, butter, or ghee, melted
- 1/4 cup (2oz/57g) Swerve, Lakanto sugar, or coconut sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla (optional)
- 1/3 cup (2 ½ floz/71ml) Lakanto maple syrup, date syrup, or honey
- 2 oz (60g) sugar-free chocolate (chopped and added to the mix or melted and drizzled on top after baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 13 x 9-inch baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the slivered almonds, walnuts, pecans, shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, ground flax, cinnamon, ginger (if using), and salt. Stir well to mix.
- Add the melted coconut oil and Swerve (or preferred sweetener) to the bowl. Toss until the mixture is fully coated and shiny.
- Pour in the Lakanto maple syrup (or alternative) and vanilla (if using). Mix until everything is evenly coated. The mixture won’t be super sticky but should be well combined.
- Transfer the granola mixture to the prepared baking tray. Use the back of a spatula to spread it out evenly and press it down firmly to compact it.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the granola bars to cool completely in the tray before removing. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars.
- If desired, melt the sugar-free chocolate and drizzle it over the bars for an extra treat.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Enjoy!
Creative Toppings and Drizzles
Take your granola bars to the next level with fun toppings! After baking, drizzle melted sugar-free chocolate over the bars for a decadent touch. You can also sprinkle a handful of chia seeds or cacao nibs for added crunch. For a fruity twist, mix in dried cranberries or chopped apricots before baking.
Perfect Pairings for Serving
These granola bars are a versatile snack! Pair them with a cup of unsweetened almond milk or black coffee for a quick breakfast. They also make a great post-workout snack alongside a protein shake or a piece of fresh fruit like an apple or banana.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Store your granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in parchment paper and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes before enjoying.
Quick Recipe Variations
Customize these bars to suit your taste! Swap out the nuts for cashews or macadamia nuts, or add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a nutty flavor boost. If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase the Lakanto maple syrup to 1/2 cup or add a dash of stevia.
Time-Saving Hacks
Save time by prepping your ingredients ahead! Measure out all the nuts, seeds, and spices the night before and store them in a sealed container. You can also double the recipe and freeze half for a ready-to-go snack whenever you need it.
Healthy Granola Bars (Sugar-Free, Grain-Free)
Ingredients
Nuts and Seeds
- 2 cups slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup ground flax
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger optional
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil, butter or ghee, melted
- 1/4 cup Swerve, Lakanto sugar, or coconut sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla optional
- 1/3 cup Lakanto maple syrup, date syrup, or honey
Optional Topping
- 2 oz Sugar free chocolate chopped and added as an ingredient – or – melted and drizzled on top after baking
Instructions
- Pre-heat your oven to 350°F (180°C) then line a 13 x 9-inch baking tray with parchment paper, set aside.
- In a large bowl combine all the nuts, seeds, coconut, flax, spices, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Next, add in the coconut oil and Swerve and toss until the mixture is fully coated and shiny.
- Lastly, add in the Lakanto maple syrup and vanilla and mix until the mixture is evenly coated. It will not be super sticky at this point but everything should be evenly coated in the syrup.
- Transfer the granola mixture to the prepared baking tray and spread it out evenly using the back of your spatula to compact it.
- Bake the granola bars for 25 – 30 minutes, or until the top is nice and golden brown.
- Allow to cool before removing the entire sheet from the baking tray and cut into 16 bars.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Enjoy!
