Name: No-Bake Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 tablespoons brown sugar, packed; 2/3 cup honey; 3 cups rolled oats; 1½ cups Rice Krispies cereal; ½ cup graham crackers, crushed; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup mini chocolate chips; ½ cup cereal marshmallows

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If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and totally irresistible snack, these No-Bake Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows will be your new go-to. They’ve got everything: chewiness, crunch, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia with graham crackers and cereal marshmallows. Think of them as the lovechild of a granola bar and a s’more—with zero baking required.

Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or late-night cravings, these bars are ridiculously easy to make and even easier to love. And since they’re no-bake, you can whip them up without heating up the kitchen—just a few pantry staples and a little chill time, and you’re set.

No-Bake Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Oven Required: Just a saucepan and a mixing bowl—no baking, no hassle.
Fast & Easy: Ready in 20 minutes of active time (plus a chill).
Kid-Approved: Chocolate chips, cereal marshmallows, and chewy texture? Instant hit.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch on Sunday and snack all week long.
Customizable: You can easily swap in other add-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or other cereals.

Ingredients

tip: you can find full ingredients and measurements list in the recipe card below

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
2/3 cup honey
3 cups rolled oats
1½ cups Rice Krispies cereal
½ cup graham crackers, crushed into small pieces and crumbs
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup mini chocolate chips
½ cup cereal marshmallows

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Spray an 8×8-inch pan with nonstick spray or vegetable oil. Line just the bottom with parchment paper to make it easier to lift the bars later.

Step 2: Make the Syrup
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, and honey. Whisk continuously until it begins to bubble. Once bubbling, cook for exactly 2 minutes. This helps bind everything together.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, Rice Krispies, crushed graham crackers, and salt. Pour the hot syrup mixture over the dry ingredients and mix carefully until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Let It Cool
Allow the mixture to cool for about 20 minutes—just enough so the chocolate chips and marshmallows don’t melt when added.

Step 5: Add the Fun Stuff
Gently fold in mini chocolate chips and cereal marshmallows. Mix just until combined.

Step 6: Press & Chill
Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan. Press it down firmly but gently—you want them to hold together but still have a chewy texture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.

Variations

S’mores Twist: Swap half the oats for crushed graham crackers and use mini marshmallows for full s’mores vibes.
Peanut Butter Flavor: Add ¼ cup peanut butter to the syrup for a nutty version.
Healthier Swap: Use maple syrup instead of honey, and reduce the chocolate chips.
Fruit & Nut: Stir in dried cranberries, chopped almonds, or sunflower seeds for a more adult version.
Drizzle Top: Melt extra chocolate and drizzle on top before chilling.

Heating and Storage

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 10 days when stored cold (best for warm climates).
Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats provide the best chewy texture. Instant oats may make the bars too soft or crumbly.

What kind of marshmallows should I use?

Cereal marshmallows are best for visual appeal and crunch, but you can use mini marshmallows if that’s what you have.

Can I make these nut-free?

Yes! There are no nuts in the base recipe. Just check that your cereal and other ingredients are nut-free.

How do I prevent them from falling apart?

Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan and chill thoroughly before slicing.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8, and follow the same method.

Do I have to refrigerate them?

Chilling helps them set properly. You can keep them at room temperature afterward, but refrigerating first is key.

Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?

Yes, but the bars may be a bit softer and less sticky. Maple syrup has a thinner consistency.

Will they melt if taken in a lunchbox?

They hold up well at room temp but can get soft in extreme heat. For hot days, keep them cool in an insulated bag.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, you can add up to 2 tablespoons of protein powder. Mix it into the dry ingredients.

How long do they last?

Stored in the fridge, these bars last up to 10 days. In the freezer, up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Whether you’re packing school lunches, planning road trip snacks, or just craving something sweet and satisfying, these No-Bake Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips and Marshmallows are a must-try. With minimal effort and major payoff, they’re a fun, nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.