The first time I made these no bake holiday bars, it wasn’t out of creativity—it was pure survival. My oven had quit two hours before my annual holiday get-together, and I was staring down a kitchen disaster. That’s when I remembered my No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake, and how magic can happen without heat. These bars came together in minutes, no stress, no bake, just chocolate, peppermint, and a little holiday faith. They’ve since become my go-to when the season feels too busy to breathe but too special not to celebrate.
What Makes No Bake Holiday Bars So Irresistible
Gathering the ingredients feels like a quick pantry raid.
You probably have most of this already. The beauty is in the simplicity, but one quirky item makes it special.
- 2 cups quick-cook oats
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup crushed pretzels (for that salty crunch!)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A generous pinch of sea salt
- Festive sprinkles for topping (non-negotiable for holiday vibes)
No Bake Holiday Bars
Equipment
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- measuring cup
- Spatula
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 2 cups quick-cook oats
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup crushed pretzels
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
- to taste festive sprinkles
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal.
- In a large bowl, mix peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Microwave briefly (about 20 seconds) if needed for easier mixing.
- Add the oats, cocoa powder, coconut, crushed pretzels, and sea salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Firmly press the mixture into the lined dish using a measuring cup or spatula to compress it well.
- Top with festive sprinkles and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Once chilled, slice into bars and serve. Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze for later.
Notes
Nutrition
(Nutrition is estimated and will vary based on actual ingredients used)
How to Make No Bake Holiday Bars Step by Step
- Line your baking pan. Grab an 8×8 inch dish and line it with parchment paper.
This single act will save you from a sticky nightmare later.
- Mix the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla. Microwave for 20 seconds if it’s too thick to stir easily.
This is the glue that holds our easy dessert bars together.
- Combine all dry ingredients. Add the oats, cocoa powder, coconut, crushed pretzels, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is fully coated and no dry spots remain.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan.
Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press it down hard. The firmer you press, the better your bars will hold their shape.
- Add your toppings and chill. Sprinkle on those festive sprinkles and pop the pan in the fridge for at least two hours.
This is the hardest part—waiting.
Storing and Freezing No Bake Holiday Bars the Easy Way
These bars are perfect for making ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to one week.
For longer storage, you can freeze them. Layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for three months in the freezer.
Thaw in the fridge overnight. This makes batch prepping for the holidays a total breeze.
Tips for Perfect No Bake Holiday Bars Every Time
- Zero Baking Required: Your oven gets to take a nap. This is a godsend during a busy holiday season when oven space is precious.
- Major Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to grandparents, these bars have universal appeal.
They’re the first platter to empty at every party I host.
- Incredibly Customizable: You can easily adapt this base recipe to fit different diets or preferences, which I’ll cover next. It’s the most versatile holiday dessert in my arsenal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making No Bake Holiday Bars
- Not pressing the mixture firmly enough. You’ll end up with crumbly granola instead of neat bars. Put some muscle into it.
- Using old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cook. The texture will be too chewy and tough.
Quick oats are essential for the right mouthfeel.
- Skipping the chilling time. I know it’s tempting to cut into them early, but patience is key. Otherwise, you have a delicious, un-cuttable mess.
Variations to Make Your No Bake Holiday Bars Uniquely Yours
This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. For a gluten-free version, use certified GF oats and ensure your pretzels are gluten-free.
To make it vegan, swap the honey for maple syrup and use vegan sprinkles. Not a peanut butter fan? Almond or sunflower seed butter work perfectly.
You can also swap the pretzels for chopped nuts or rice cereal. For a keto-friendly version, check out my guide on sugar-free sweeteners.
Frequently Asked Questions About No Bake Holiday Bars
Can I freeze this?
Absolutely! These no bake holiday bars freeze beautifully.
Just follow the storage instructions above, and you’ll have a ready-made dessert on hand for unexpected guests.
What’s the best substitute for peanut butter?
Any nut or seed butter works well. Almond butter and cashew butter are my top choices. SunButter is a great nut-free alternative that tastes fantastic.
How long does it stay fresh?
In the fridge, they are perfect for up to 7 days.
The flavors actually meld and get even better after a day. IMO, they taste best within the first 4 days.
Is this kid-friendly?
Extremely. Kids love making them and eating them.
It’s a great, safe recipe for little helpers to get involved in the kitchen during the holidays.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
That’s the whole point! These are the ultimate make-ahead dessert. You can prep them up to a week in advance, making your party day completely stress-free.
Final Thoughts on My Favorite No Bake Holiday Bars
When I think about these no bake holiday bars, I can still picture that first chaotic night when my oven broke and somehow, magic happened anyway. Now, they’ve become part of our December rhythm here in Portland—kids laughing, cocoa simmering, and the fridge full of these chewy, chocolatey bars that somehow make everything feel easier.
They remind me that holiday joy doesn’t come from perfection—it comes from small, sweet moments shared around the table. Whether you’re making them for a party, gifting them to neighbors, or sneaking one after bedtime, I hope they bring your kitchen the same calm comfort they bring mine.
If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my No-Bake Christmas Cheesecake—another stress-free favorite that’s perfect for cozy celebrations.
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