Pistachio Cranberry Chia Bars

These Pistachio Cranberry Chia Bars are a wholesome, nutrient-dense treat that strikes the perfect balance between chewy, crunchy, and naturally sweet. Packed with heart-healthy fats, fiber, and plant-based protein, they make an ideal snack for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or a light dessert. The earthy crunch of pistachios, the tart pop of dried cranberries, and the subtle nutty flavor of chia seeds come together in a bar that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Yield: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup raw pistachios, roughly chopped

½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)

¼ cup chia seeds

1 cup rolled oats

½ cup almond flour (or finely ground oats)

⅓ cup honey or maple syrup

¼ cup coconut oil, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease if needed.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pistachios, dried cranberries, chia seeds, rolled oats, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients. This mixture forms the hearty, textured base of the bars.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth and glossy. Make sure the coconut oil is slightly cooled before mixing so it doesn’t cook the eggs.

4. Create the Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and a thick batter forms. The chia seeds will begin absorbing moisture, helping bind the mixture together.

5. Bake
Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, pressing it down slightly to ensure compact bars. Sprinkle a few extra pistachios on top if desired. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.

6. Cool and Slice
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This step is essential, as the bars will firm up as they cool. Once set, lift them out using the parchment paper and slice into even squares or rectangles.

Tips & Variations

For extra sweetness, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars
Substitute walnuts or almonds for pistachios if preferred
Add orange zest for a bright, citrusy note
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage

These Pistachio Cranberry Chia Bars are satisfying, flavorful, and beautifully textured—proof that healthy snacks can be just as delicious as they are nourishing. Perfect for meal prep or sharing, they’re a treat you’ll come back to again and again 🌿🥜🍒