Coconut Granola Bars – Healthy Homemade Snack

Last updated on August 12, 2025

I still remember the first time I made Coconut Granola Bars. My kitchen, which felt like a chaotic scene out of a cooking show, was scattered with ingredients, and my three kids were buzzing around, each begging for a taste of the sweet concoction. I competently whisked the peanut butter and honey, only to have my youngest insist that I “make it like the store, Mom!” — whatever that meant! By the time they cooled and were ready to cut, my kids were dancing with excitement and trading places for their first bites. This experience taught me something powerful: homemade snacks can be comforting, delicious, and surprisingly simple, even amidst the joyful chaos of family life.

If you’ve ever found yourself tired of overly processed snacks, or you just want a quick, healthy alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste, you’re in the right place. Trust me; this Coconut Granola Bars recipe is one that even beginner cooks can manage with ease. With just a few pantry staples and some straightforward steps, you’ll have a tasty snack that your whole family will love. So let’s dive in and make this a stress-free and enjoyable experience!

Why I Love This Recipe of Coconut Granola Bars

There’s something extra special about making your own granola bars. Not only are they a cozy snack filled with wholesome ingredients, but they also allow you control over what goes in it. Each bite is packed with energy, making them perfect for busy mornings or as an after-school treat.

This recipe is a splendid way to introduce kids to cooking as well. With ingredients that provide healthy fats, proteins, and lots of flavors, they can get involved in the mixing and stirring—getting their little hands in the dough is part of the fun!

For those new to cooking or uncertain in the kitchen, this recipe is practically fool-proof. With minimal cooking time and simple instructions, it’s a cozy, practical way to introduce your family to homemade snacks that won’t take the joy out of your busy life.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Coconut Granola Bars

When it comes to making Coconut Granola Bars, the best part is that you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! Let’s break down what you’ll need, including some optional add-ins you can customize for the perfect blend of flavors.

Coconut Granola Bars

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• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

These Coconut Granola Bars are chewy, nutty, and naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup. Packed with rolled oats, shredded coconut, and nut butter, they make a perfect grab-and-go snack that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Easy to customize with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened or sweetened)
• 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ons:

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
• 1/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, raisins)
• 1/4 cup seeds (chia, sunflower, pumpkin)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting.
2. Warm Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, stir together peanut or almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth, 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, salt, and any optional add-ins.
4. Combine: Pour warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until oats are fully coated.
5. Press: Transfer mixture into prepared pan and press down firmly into an even layer.
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15–18 minutes, until edges are golden.
7. Cool & Cut: Let bars cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into bars or squares.
8. Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Notes

• No Coconut? Replace with extra oats.
• No-Bake Option: Skip baking for softer bars (texture will differ).
• Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 45mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: coconut granola bars, healthy snack bars, oat bars, homemade granola bars, no-bake granola bars, vegan granola bars

Essentials

• 2 cups rolled oats: These are the heart and soul of our bars. Rolled oats give them structure and a satisfying chew.

• 1 cup shredded coconut: This brings a delicious, tropical flair and a hint of sweetness to the bars. Choose unsweetened if you prefer less sugar.

• 1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter: Both nut butters act as a binding agent. They’re rich in healthy fats and protein, keeping you and your family energized.

• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup: The sweet companion to the nut butter, honey adds moisture while giving a lovely sticky consistency. Maple syrup works beautifully too for a vegan option.

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors, making the bars pleasantly aromatic.

• Pinch of salt: Just a tiny bit brings balance to the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ons

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts: Think almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added crunch and protein.

• 1/4 cup dried fruit: Dried cranberries, apricots, or raisins add sweetness and chewy texture.

• 1/4 cup seeds: Chia seeds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds can enhance the nutritional value and add a nutty taste.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

Not a fan of coconut? Feel free to exclude it and double the oats instead. Running low on honey? Maple syrup is a great substitute that heightens the flavor without any fuss. If you’re short on time, you can also skip the baking step for no-bake granola bars, although they will have a slightly different texture.

How to Make Coconut Granola Bars Step-by-Step

Now that you’ve gathered everything, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making these delicious bars. Follow the steps below to whip up your very own Coconut Granola Bars!

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by taking a 9×13 inch baking pan and lining it with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents the bars from sticking and makes the cleanup a breeze. Feel free to leave some overhang on the sides, which can help you lift the bars out later.

Step 2: Warm the Wet Ingredients

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine your peanut or almond butter with the honey (or maple syrup). Stir continuously until the mixture is warm and smooth—about 2-3 minutes. Make sure not to overheat as burned nut butter can ruin the flavor. Once smoothed out, remove from the heat and whisk in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of deliciousness.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, mix the rolled oats, shredded coconut, and any optional add-ins like chopped nuts, seeds, or a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the dry ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the warm nut butter and honey mixture over the oat mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, stir until everything is well coated. You want to make sure that no dry oats are left uncoated for optimal flavor and texture.

Step 5: Press into the Pan

Now it’s time to transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Use your hands (dampened slightly to avoid sticking) or a spatula to press the mixture firmly into an even layer. Pressing it down well is key to ensuring that the bars hold their shape after baking.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, pop the pan into the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges look golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent overbaking, as they can quickly turn from perfect to burnt.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once they’re done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This is crucial—if you try to cut them too early, they might crumble apart! Once cool, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Use a sharp knife to cut them into bars or squares based on your preference.

Step 8: Store

Place your Coconut Granola Bars in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the simplest recipes can have their pitfalls. Here are a few common mistakes people make while making Coconut Granola Bars and how to avoid them.

Not Pressing Firmly Enough

One of the most common issues is not pressing the mixture firmly into the pan. This can lead to crumbly bars that fall apart when you try to cut them. Make sure to use your palms or a spatula to really pack it down.

Overheating the Nut Butter

While warming the nut butter is essential, overheating it can change the flavor and consistency. Always use low heat and stir continuously to ensure it’s warm but not burnt.

Skipping the Cooling Time

I totally get it; the bars smell so good that you want to dig in right away! However, skipping the cooling time can cause them to crumble and break apart when you cut them. Patience is key here!

Overbaking

Keep a close eye on the baking time. If left in too long, the bars can become hard and dry. Remember, they continue to cook a little after they’re out of the oven.

Easy Variations for Coconut Granola Bars

What’s fantastic about these Coconut Granola Bars is how customizable they are. Here are some easy variations to suit your family’s taste or dietary preferences.

Add Flavored Protein Powder

For an extra protein boost, try mixing in a scoop of your favorite protein powder. Chocolate or vanilla flavor can add a unique twist to your bars.

Switch Up the Nuts

Feeling creative? Use different nuts to provide variation. Cashews or hazelnuts can give a whole new flavor to the bars, while still maintaining the crunch that everyone enjoys.

Chocolate Drizzle

If you want to add a little decadence, melt some dairy-free or dark chocolate to drizzle on top of cooled bars. Let it harden before cutting — talk about a treat!

Seasonal Add-Ins

Get into the seasonal spirit and add a touch of pumpkin spice in the fall or dried cranberries and nuts during the winter. Such little changes can create a new excitement for a classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions for Coconut Granola Bars

There are endless possibilities when it comes to serving your delicious coconut granola bars. Here are a few ideas that can elevate your snack time!

Breakfast on the Go

These bars are perfect for busy mornings. Just grab one, pair it with a piece of fruit, and you have a complete breakfast that’s easy to take with you.

Afternoon Snack

Whether at home or in lunch boxes, these bars provide a satisfying energy boost during the afternoon slump. Add yogurt or nut butter for a protein-packed snack.

Healthy Dessert Alternative

Trying to cut back on sugar-laden treats? Coconut granola bars can be the healthier dessert alternative. Serve them with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of yogurt.

Movie Night Treat

Instead of the usual popcorn, these bars can provide a healthier snack for movie nights. Make them interactive by letting everyone add their favorite toppings on top.

Conclusion

Coconut Granola Bars are fast becoming a family favorite in my house, and I hope the same for you! Although they might look complex, this recipe proves that it’s easier than it looks. The real beauty lies in their versatility; you can tweak it to suit your family’s tastes, and I love the cozy feeling of making a homemade treat that everyone can enjoy.

So, grab your ingredients, gather the kids, and make these Coconut Granola Bars together. It’s a delightful kitchen adventure that can turn into a cherished family tradition.

Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family, or make a batch for your next get-together. Trust me; they will be a hit!

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FAQs About Coconut Granola Bars

Now, roll up your sleeves and enjoy making a batch of your own Coconut Granola Bars. Happy snacking!