Crunchy Muesli Bars
These crunchy muesli bars are packed with oats, nuts, seeds, and a touch of honey, perfect for a healthy snack or lunchbox addition. They offer a satisfying texture and natural sweetness.
Equipment
- 1 8-inch square baking pan lined with parchment paper
- 1 baking tray
- 1 small saucepan
- 1 mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almonds roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup pepitas pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup sultanas raisins
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder or pumpkin spice
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher or cooking salt
- 2 tablespoons small chocolate chips or 3 tablespoons dark chocolate chips optional
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter smooth or crunchy
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- Spread the oats, almonds, and pepitas on a baking tray and toast for 8–10 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, combine the toasted oat mixture, sultanas, cinnamon, salt, and chocolate chips if using.
- Warm the honey and peanut butter together in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth and stirrable, avoiding boiling.
- Pour the honey-peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly to evenly coat everything.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly with the back of a spoon or glass to compact.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown around the edges.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting out using the parchment overhang.
- For cleaner slices, refrigerate the bars for 30 minutes, then cut into bars or squares and store airtight.
Notes
- Press mixture firmly to ensure bars hold together well.
- Add 2 tablespoons shredded coconut for extra crunch.
- Substitute almonds with cashews or walnuts as desired.
- Store airtight at room temperature up to 5 days or refrigerate longer.