Who remembers the Quaker chewy chocolate chip granola bars? Those were my favorite after-school snack as a kid! If you enjoyed them too, then this recipe is right up your alley. It’s just like the Quaker granola bars, but made with better ingredients! The recipe is also no-bake, so it’s super quick and easy.

Every generation has certain foods that remind them of their childhood. People who grew up in the 80s remember eating Smurf Berry Crunch cereal for breakfast. 90’s babies ate Trix yogurt. As someone who was born in the 2000s, I can confidently say that Quaker chewy chocolate chip granola bars were one of the defining foods of the era. These granola bars advertise themselves as being a “healthy” snack under 100 calories, but one look at the ingredient list tells you there is nothing natural about these bars.

Although they may not be the best for you, Quaker chewy granola bars are undeniably delicious. They’re the perfect amount of sweet for an afternoon pick-me-up. I always grabbed one of these as a snack when I got home from school! Granola bars are ultra-convenient, as they’re easy to transport and can be enjoyed as breakfast or snacks while on the go. That’s why I decided to make my version of Quaker chewy chocolate chip granola bars as a recipe!

For the homemade version, I used quick-cooking oats and puffed kamut to provide a healthy serving of whole grains, and swapped out butter for coconut oil. To make the recipe as easy as possible, I also made it a no-bake recipe! That way, even busy parents can whip up a batch of these granola bars on Sunday to prepare for the week ahead. It’s always good to have a healthy snack option ready to go!

How To Make Vegan Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/3 brown sugar packed
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats ensure they are gluten-free if needed
• 1 cup puffed kamut or puffed rice
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp vegan chocolate chips plus extra for topping
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Lightly grease a 9″ square pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats and puffed kamut/rice.
3. Combine coconut oil, maple syrup, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in vanilla.
4. Pour wet ingredients over oats and rice and mix until well coated. Gently stir in chocolate chips.
5. Transfer mixture to prepared pan and press firmly to pack into bottom and sides.
6. Add extra chocolate chips on top and press down into the mixture. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.
7. Set the pan out at room temperature for 1 1/2 to 2 hours before slicing it into bars. Store in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Additional Tips for Chocolate Chip Granola Bars (Gluten-Free/Vegan)

1. Add Your Favorite Nut Butter:
   • Make your bars richer by mixing in a spoonful of your preferred nut butter like almond or peanut butter. It brings a nutty twist that pairs well with the sweetness.
2. Try Dried Fruits for a Flavor Boost:
   • Boost taste and nutrition by tossing in a handful of chopped dried fruits like apricots or raisins. Mix them with oats for a burst of natural sweetness.
3. Drizzle with Dairy-Free Chocolate:
   • Make it extra special by melting dairy-free chocolate and drizzling it over the top before setting. It adds a lovely touch and more chocolatey goodness to every bite. Enjoy your easy homemade granola bars!

FAQ

Can I use regular oats for Gluten-Free/Vegan Chocolate Chip Granola Bars?

• Quick-cooking oats work best, but regular oats can be used with a potential texture difference.

What is puffed kamut, and can I substitute it with something else?

• Puffed kamut is a type of puffed grain. If unavailable, puffed rice or another puffed grain can be a suitable substitute.

Are there alternatives to coconut oil for those with allergies or preferences?

• Yes, melted vegan butter or a mild-flavored oil like sunflower or grapeseed can be used as alternatives to coconut oil.

Can I freeze these granola bars for longer storage?

• Absolutely! Once set, cut the bars into portions, wrap them individually, and freeze them for up to three months for a convenient grab-and-go snack.

Is it necessary to wait for 1 1/2 to 2 hours before slicing, or can I cut them sooner?

• Allowing the bars to set at room temperature enhances their texture. Cutting them too soon may result in crumbly bars.

Can I reduce the sugar content without compromising the taste?

• Yes, you can slightly reduce the brown sugar or experiment with natural sweeteners like agave syrup or date paste for a healthier option.