No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars are the perfect healthy snack that’s quick and easy to make. Packed with peanut butter, nuts, and a mix of your favorite trail mix goodies, they’re sweet, crunchy, and totally satisfying. I made them once, and they’re now my go-to grab-and-go treat!
These bars combine creamy peanut butter with crunchy nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, no baking means they come together fast and stay fresh for days.
If you want a wholesome snack that’s great for busy days, workouts, or anytime you need a boost, these bars are for you. Perfect for kids and adults alike. I always make a big batch because they disappear quickly!
Let’s whip up a batch! These no bake peanut butter trail mix bars are simple, tasty, and packed with energy. You’ll love having them on hand whenever hunger strikes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: No baking required—ready in about 20 minutes with minimal effort.
- Healthy Energy Boost: Packed with oats, nuts, and dried fruit for natural energy and crunch.
- Customizable: Easily swap or add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
- Kid-Friendly: Soft, chewy bars that kids love for lunchboxes or snacks.
- Perfect Make-Ahead Snack: Keeps well in the fridge for several days, so you can prepare ahead.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Prep Time & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Set Time: 1 hour (no baking)
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings:
This recipe makes 12 bars—perfect for sharing or keeping as your daily snack.
Difficulty:
Very easy, great for beginner cooks or anyone wanting a fast, fuss-free recipe.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8×8 inch baking pan or similar size
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Ingredients for No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to bring these bars to life (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Provides chewy texture and whole-grain goodness.
- Peanut Butter: Use natural or classic creamy peanut butter for rich flavor and binding.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps hold the bars together.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: For little bursts of melty sweetness.
- Raisins: Adds chewy, fruity notes.
- Sunflower Seeds: Gives a light crunch and nutty flavor.
- Almonds (Chopped): Or any nut of choice, for extra texture and protein.
- Dried Cranberries: Adds a tart contrast and chewy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A small splash enhances the overall flavor.
- Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
Variations for No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini and use pumpkin seeds instead of nuts.
- Add More Crunch: Toss in some chopped pretzels or rice cereal for extra texture.
- Switch Up the Fruit: Use dried cherries, blueberries, or chopped dried apricots in place of cranberries or raisins.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top or mix in white chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a tiny dash of cayenne for a subtle warmth.
How to Make No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over the edges for easy removal later. Alternatively, lightly grease the pan with non-stick spray.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well until smooth and well blended.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Add the rolled oats, chopped almonds, sunflower seeds, raisins, dried cranberries, mini chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture.
4. Transfer to the Pan
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using the back of a spatula or your hands (lightly greased or wet to prevent sticking). Compacting the mixture well helps the bars hold together once set.
5. Chill to Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the bars to firm up. This step is important for the bars to hold their shape when cut.
Serving and Decoration
No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars are ready to enjoy straight from the fridge. Slice them into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. You can serve them as a quick snack, pack them for school lunches, or take them on hikes for a portable energy boost.
For a little extra touch, you can sprinkle some extra sunflower seeds or chopped nuts on top before chilling. These bars also pair nicely with a glass of milk or your favorite tea.
Storing No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars
- Refrigerator: Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
- Freezer: Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
- Room Temperature: These bars can stay out for a day or so if well wrapped but are best kept chilled to maintain firmness.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together well.
- Use natural peanut butter without added oils or sugars for a cleaner taste.
- If your peanut butter is very thick, gently warm it to make mixing easier.
- For even cutting, chill the bars well before slicing and use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts.
- Customize the mix-ins to your preference for flavor and texture variety.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount (per bar) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 60mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 9g |
| Protein | 5g |
No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars
Course: Uncategorized15
minutes1
hour180
kcalIngredients
1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
½ cup peanut butter (natural or classic)
¼ cup honey
¼ cup mini chocolate chips
¼ cup raisins
¼ cup sunflower seeds
¼ cup chopped almonds (or any nuts)
¼ cup dried cranberries
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Directions
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.
- In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, honey, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruits, chocolate chips, and salt. Stir until coated evenly.
- Press mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set.
- Cut into 12 bars and serve.
No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars FAQs
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and crunch to the bars. Just make sure it’s well mixed with the honey.
Q: How long do these bars last?
A: Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they keep well for up to 5 days. You can freeze them for longer storage.
Q: Can I substitute the nuts and seeds?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, or any nuts and seeds you like best.
Q: Are these bars gluten-free?
A: They can be, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.
Q: Can I make these bars vegan?
A: Yes, swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar and use a plant-based peanut butter.
Conclusion
No Bake Peanut Butter Trail Mix Bars are a simple and wholesome snack you can whip up quickly with pantry staples. They balance sweet, nutty, and chewy flavors with a satisfying crunch, perfect for busy days or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. I love how easy they are to customize—just swap your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or seeds and enjoy a fresh twist every time.