Soft, chewy, naturally sweet snack bars perfect for breakfast or an on-the-go energy boost.

Yield

12 bars

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

18–22 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 cup (140 g) raw unsalted cashews, roughly chopped
• ½ cup (50 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
• ½ cup (70 g) dried cranberries, roughly chopped if large
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup (60 g) natural almond butter or cashew butter (helps bind the bars)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten (or 1 flax egg for a vegan version)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter

Optional Add-Ins

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
• ¼ cup white or dark chocolate chips
• Orange zest
• Pumpkin seeds
• Hemp hearts

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

• chopped cashews
• rolled oats
• dried cranberries
• salt
• cinnamon (if using)

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• honey
• vanilla
• almond or cashew butter
• melted coconut oil
• egg (or flax egg)

Step 4: Combine

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly coated. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If it seems dry, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and press down firmly.

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 6: Cool

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into 12 bars.

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Approximate Nutrition (Per Bar)

Based on 12 servings.

• Calories: 155
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Total Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg (with egg)
• Sodium: 55 mg

Values vary depending on the ingredients used.

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Health Benefits

Cashews

• Rich in heart-healthy unsaturated fats
• Good source of magnesium, copper, and zinc
• Provide plant-based protein

Oats

• High in soluble fiber (beta-glucan)
• Help support healthy cholesterol levels
• Provide slow-releasing energy

Dried Cranberries

• Add antioxidants and natural sweetness
• Provide small amounts of fiber
• Pair well with nuts for a balanced snack

Honey

• Natural sweetener
• Adds moisture and helps bind ingredients

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Storage

Room Temperature: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Refrigerator: Up to 1 week.

Freezer: Up to 3 months. Wrap individual bars and thaw at room temperature before eating.

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Variations

No-Bake Version

Skip the egg. Increase the nut butter to ½ cup, mix everything together, press into a pan, and refrigerate for 2–3 hours until firm.

Vegan

• Replace honey with maple syrup.
• Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, rested for 5 minutes).

Gluten-Free

Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Extra Protein

Add 2 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder and increase the liquid slightly if needed.

Nut-Free

Replace the cashews and nut butter with sunflower seeds and sunflower seed butter.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use roasted cashews?
Yes. Unsalted roasted cashews add a deeper flavor.

Can I use quick oats?
Yes, but the bars will have a softer texture than if made with rolled oats.

Why are my bars crumbly?
They may need more binder. Add an extra tablespoon of nut butter or honey, and be sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan.

Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes. Reduce the honey slightly or use unsweetened dried cranberries if available.

Can I make these without baking?
Yes. Follow the no-bake variation above for a chilled, chewy version.

Can I substitute other dried fruits?
Absolutely. Chopped dried cherries, raisins, apricots, dates, or blueberries all work well.

Are these bars suitable for meal prep?