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No-Bake Nut Bars

These no-bake nut bars come together quickly with toasted mixed nuts, oats, honey, and dried fruit pressed into a pan and chilled until firm. They have a chewy, crunchy texture with a glossy chocolate drizzle on top, making them both satisfying and nostalgic. Perfect for a quick, customizable snack that keeps well in the fridge.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 minute
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts) coarsely chopped and toasted
  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup dried fruit (apricots, cranberries) chopped, soak briefly if too chewy
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup for vegan option
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt plus extra for sprinkling
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 20cm (8-inch) square pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Dry skillet
  • Spatula
  • Microwave or Double boiler
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Line your square pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
  2. Chop the nuts roughly and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and golden, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Let them cool slightly.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Warm the mixture slightly in the microwave for about 20 seconds until it's runny and fragrant.
  4. Add the toasted nuts, oats, and chopped dried fruit to the honey mixture. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until everything is evenly coated and sticky.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly with the back of a spatula or your fingers to create an even, compact layer. This helps the bars hold together nicely.
  6. If using chocolate, melt it gently in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the pressed mixture for a glossy finish.
  7. Chill the bars in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until the mixture is firm and set. This makes slicing easier and ensures they hold their shape.
  8. Once set, lift the entire block out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into 8 bars or squares, pressing down firmly for clean edges.
  9. Arrange the bars on a plate or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re ready to enjoy whenever you need a quick, satisfying snack!

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits. For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before chilling.