Paleo | Gluten Free | Refined Sugar Free | Dairy Free
These crunchy and chewy Paleo cereal bars make a perfect grab-and-go breakfast, snack, or a great way to fuel your body before or after a workout! Made with wholesome ingredients, they are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and sweetened only with honey. They’re satisfying, delicious, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. Plus, they’re healthy and kid-friendly, making them great for sharing with family and friends.
These cereal bars are one of my husband’s favourite snacks, he loves the perfect balance of flavour and crunch. He says they taste even better than store-bought versions, and the best part is they’re made with simple, healthy ingredients. In less than 10 minutes, you can whip up these cereal bars with just a few easy-to-find ingredients.
Ingredients Needed to Make These Easy No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bars
- The cereal: Is the main and crunchy ingredient of these bars. You can use any crispy cereal that you like. I personally use Lovebird cereal, which is an organic, gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free, paleo, and AIP cereal that tastes amazing. For this recipe, any flavor works, but I particularly enjoy the honey flavor for its added touch of sweetness and crunch. Additionally, chocolate or cinnamon flavors can enhance the richness, while unflavored provides a more neutral base.
- Natural Almond butter and honey: Act as the glue that holds the bars together. They also add some healthy fats and natural sugars to the bars.
- Pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, and cacao nibs: Add some extra texture and flavor to the bars. They also provide some antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the bars.
- Coconut oil: Helps the bars set and stay firm in the fridge.
- Salt: Enhances the flavour of the bars and balances out the sweetness.
- Melted chocolate: Adds a decadent touch to the bars and makes them look more appealing.
What Makes These No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bars So Good?
- Healthy:Made with wholesome ingredients like seeds, almond butter, and honey.
- Paleo-Friendly:Perfect for those following a paleo diet.
- Low-Carb:Naturally lower in carbs, making them a great option for carb-conscious eaters.
- Naturally Sweetened:Sweetened with honey, providing natural sugars without refined ingredients.
- Gluten-Free:Completely gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten
- Dairy-Free: No dairy, ideal for lactose-intolerant or dairy-free diets.
- Easily Customisable:Swap in your favourite nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or chocolate chips.
- No-Bake:No oven needed, making this recipe hassle-free.
- Quick & Easy:Takes just a few minutes to prepare with minimal effort.
- Packed with Flavour:A delicious mix of nut butter, honey, seeds, and dark chocolate.
- Nutrient-Dense:Rich in healthy fats, fibre, and protein from pumpkin seeds, almond butter, and cacao nibs, keeping you energised and satisfied.
- Versatile:Enjoy as a snack, breakfast, or post-workout treat.
Is This No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bar a Good Pre or Post-Workout Snack?
Yes, this No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bar is a great snack for both pre- and post-workout. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, it fuels your body when you need energy and helps you recover after exercise. Here’s why it works so well:
- Provides Quick Energy:The natural sweetness from honey and dried cranberries offers a fast source of energy, making these bars ideal before a workout.
- Replenishes Carbohydrates:The gluten-free cereal and honey help restore glycogen levels after physical activity without the crash that comes from refined sugars.
- Contains Healthy Fats:Almond butter and coconut oil provide healthy fats that keep you full and support energy levels during and after workouts.
- Supports Muscle Recovery:Pumpkin seeds and cacao nibs are rich in plant-based protein and magnesium, both important for muscle repair and reducing inflammation.
- Easy on Digestion:Made with simple, whole-food ingredients, these bars are gentle on the stomach and easy to digest, which is especially helpful around workout times.
- Convenient for On-the-Go:Since they require no baking and store well, you can easily toss one into your gym bag for a nutritious snack anytime.
Tip: For the best results, enjoy one bar about 30 to 60 minutes before your workout. To support recovery, have one within an hour after exercising to refuel and recharge.
Are These No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bars Kid-Friendly?
Yes, these No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bars are totally kid-approved! They’re naturally sweetened, full of crunchy goodness, and free from refined sugar, making them a healthy snack option that both kids and parents can feel good about. Here’s why they’re a great choice for little ones:
- Naturally Sweet and Tasty: Sweetened only with honey and dried cranberries, these bars have just the right amount of natural sweetness that kids love—without any added sugar.
- No Artificial Ingredients: Made with wholesome, pantry-friendly ingredients, these bars contain zero preservatives, dyes, or artificial flavors.
- Nutritious and Energizing: Almond butter, pumpkin seeds, and cacao nibs deliver protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals to support growing bodies.
- Perfect for School Lunches or Snacks: These bars hold up well in lunchboxes and make a satisfying snack for after school, sports practice, or weekend adventures.
- Fun to Make Together: With no baking required, kids can help mix, press, and drizzle the chocolate topping—turning snack time into a fun family activity.
Pro Tip: Cut them into mini squares for perfect toddler-sized bites, or wrap them individually for easy grab-and-go lunchbox treats.
Why You’ll Love this No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bars
- Diet-Friendly and Versatile:These bars are gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences. You can also customize them with different flavours of cereal, nut butter, and toppings to suit your taste buds.
- Natural Sweetness:Sweetened with honey, these cereal bars offer a delightful taste without added refined sugars. They are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without feeling guilty.
- Quick and Easy:With a preparation time of less than 10 minutes and simple ingredients, these bars are convenient to make. You just need to mix, press, and chill the mixture before cutting into bars. You can also store them in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge or freezer.
- Taste & Texture:The combination of crunchy cereal, creamy almond butter, and chewy cranberries creates a satisfying texture and flavour profile. The melted chocolate drizzle adds an extra touch of decadence and richness.
- Health Benefits:Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like pumpkin seeds and cacao nibs, these bars are not just tasty but also nutritious. They provide a good source of protein, fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, and minerals that support your overall health and well-being.
How to Make the Best Cereal Bars!
These cereal bars are so easy to make and so delicious to eat.
- Start with the Right Cereal:
Choose a cereal that is crunchy and fresh for the perfect texture. A high-quality, gluten-free, and sugar-free cereal is ideal to keep these bars healthy and delicious. - Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine your cereal, seeds, dried fruits, and any other dry mix-ins you like. This is the base that gives your bars their satisfying crunch and flavour. - Melt the Wet Ingredients:
Gently heat the almond butter, honey, and coconut oil in a saucepan over medium heat, or microwave them until smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat; you just want the ingredients to be warm and easy to mix. - Combine the Mixtures:
Pour the melted wet ingredients over the dry mixture. Stir gently until all the cereal and add-ins are thoroughly coated and everything sticks together nicely. - Press Firmly into the Pan:
Line a loaf pan or baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well once they’re set. - Chill to Set:
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or even overnight, until it’s fully firm and ready to cut. - Slice and Add the Finishing Touch:
Once the bars are fully set, remove them from the fridge and use a sharp knife to cut them into either 8 large bars or 16 medium-sized bars, depending on your preference. If you’re watching your carbs or calories, the smaller size may be a better option. For an extra treat, drizzle the bars with melted dark chocolate. - Store and Enjoy:
Store your cereal bars in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and crunchy for up to a week. They make the perfect healthy snack, breakfast, or sweet treat!
Easy No-Bake Paleo Cereal Bars Recipe
These Paleo crunchy and chewy cereal bars are a great grab-and-go breakfast or snack. They are gluten-free, dairy-free, and sweetened only with honey. You will love them because they are satisfying, delicious, and perfect to satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthy way.They are also a smart choice for both pre-workout and post-workout fuel. The natural sugars and healthy fats provide energy before exercise and help with recovery afterward. Best of all, they are healthy and kid-friendly, so you can feel good about sharing them with your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (76g) gluten-free, sugar-free cereal (I use honey flavour, but cinnamon or chocolate flavour works too)
- ½ Cups + 2 tablespoons (160g) almond butter (100% natural and runny) or any nut butter
- ⅓ cup + 2 tablespoons (130g) honey
- ⅓ cup (45g) pumpkin seeds
- ⅓ cup (40g) dried cranberries (no added sugar)
- ½ cup (28g) cacao nibs or sugar-free chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon (14g) coconut oil
- Pinch of salt
Topping:
- 20-30 g (2–3 tablespoons) melted dark chocolate
Instructions
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cereal, pumpkin seeds, cranberries, and cacao nibs.
- Heat the Wet Ingredients: In a saucepan, add almond butter, honey, and coconut oil. Heat over medium heat for about 1.5 to 2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave them until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Pour the almond butter mixture over the dry ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Shape the Bars: Pour the mixture into a silicone loaf pan or a lined baking tray 30x14 cm ( 11.8 x 5.5 inches). Press the mixture firmly into place.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until set.
- Add the Topping: Once set, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into your desired size. You can slice them into 8 large bars or 16 medium-sized bars depending on your preference. If you are watching your carbs or calories, the smaller size may be a better option.
Notes
For more details and step-by-step instructions, check out the "How to Make the Best Cereal Bars! "section.
