Crunchy Muesli Bars

Crunchy Muesli Bars are a wholesome, energy-boosting snack that I love to make ahead for busy mornings, lunchbox treats, or afternoon pick-me-ups. Packed with oats, nuts, seeds, and just the right amount of sweetness, these bars are baked to golden perfection for that satisfying crunch in every bite. They’re simple, customizable, and way better than store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these muesli bars come together with pantry staples and offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor. They’re crunchy, lightly sweetened, and full of nutritious ingredients that keep me going through the day. Plus, I can easily adjust them based on what I have—whether I want something nutty, fruity, or chocolatey. These bars are great for grab-and-go snacks and stay fresh for days.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled oats

• Honey or maple syrup

• Brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

• Coconut oil or unsalted butter

• Chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or walnuts)

• Sunflower or pumpkin seeds

• Dried fruit (like cranberries, raisins, or apricots)

• Shredded coconut (optional)

• Vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

• Ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven and lining a baking pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I mix together the oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and coconut.

3. In a small saucepan, I melt the coconut oil or butter with honey (and brown sugar if using) over medium heat. I stir in the vanilla, salt, and cinnamon, then pour the mixture over the dry ingredients.

4. I mix everything well, making sure all the dry ingredients are coated.

5. I press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan—it’s important to pack it down tightly so the bars hold together.

6. I bake the bars for about 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

7. I let them cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars. If I cut too soon, they might crumble.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 bars and takes around 35–40 minutes total—10–15 minutes of prep and 20–25 minutes of baking. They’re ready to eat once fully cooled and sliced.

Variations

• I sometimes add dark chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking.

• For a tropical twist, I use dried pineapple, mango, and add extra coconut.

• I swap honey for maple syrup to make them vegan (if I use coconut oil instead of butter).

• I add chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber and nutrients.

storage/reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the fridge for a firmer texture. They also freeze well—I wrap each bar individually and freeze for up to a month. No reheating needed; I just thaw and enjoy.

FAQs

How do I make the bars extra crunchy?

I press the mixture down firmly in the pan and bake until the edges are deep golden brown. Letting them cool completely before cutting is also key to getting that crunch.

Can I make these nut-free?

Yes, I replace the nuts with more seeds or puffed rice cereal to keep them school-friendly and still crunchy.

What can I use instead of honey?

I often use maple syrup or agave syrup as a vegan alternative. Just keep in mind it may slightly affect the flavor and stickiness.

Why do my bars fall apart?

Usually it’s because they weren’t packed tightly enough in the pan or weren’t cooled fully before cutting. I make sure to really press them down and wait until they’re completely cool.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

I prefer rolled oats for texture, but quick oats work too—they just make the bars a bit softer and less chunky.

Conclusion

Crunchy Muesli Bars are one of my favorite snacks to prep ahead. They’re healthy, satisfying, and easy to customize based on what I’m craving or what’s in the pantry. Whether I’m on the go, packing a lunch, or reaching for a guilt-free treat, these bars always come through with that perfect crispy bite.

Crunchy Muesli Bars

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Crunchy Muesli Bars are a wholesome, baked snack made with oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, lightly sweetened and packed with flavor. They’re perfect for busy mornings, lunchboxes, or anytime snacking, offering satisfying crunch and customizable goodness.

• Author: Mayaa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Healthy
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
• 1/3 cup coconut oil or unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or walnuts)
• 1/4 cup sunflower or pumpkin seeds
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, or apricots), chopped if large
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and shredded coconut.
3. In a small saucepan, melt coconut oil or butter with honey (and brown sugar if using) over medium heat. Stir in vanilla, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press it down very firmly and evenly with a spatula or the bottom of a glass.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown on top and around the edges.
7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into 12 bars. This helps them hold together and stay crunchy.

Notes

• Press the mixture down firmly before baking for the best structure.
• Let bars cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.
• Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate after baking for extra indulgence.
• Use maple syrup and coconut oil to make the bars vegan.
• Add chia or flaxseeds for added nutrients and fiber.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 65mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg