Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Having everything ready to go makes the process smooth and quick.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, toasted pepitas, dried cranberries, and chia seeds if you're using them. Stir until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, mix the smooth peanut butter and brown rice syrup. If your peanut butter is too thick, you can slightly warm it in the microwave to make mixing easier.
Pour the peanut butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Use your spatula to mix everything together until all the dry ingredients are fully coated in the peanut butter and syrup mixture.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use the spatula or your hands to press it firmly into an even layer. The firmer you press it, the better your bars will hold together.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for allowing the bars to firm up.
Once set, remove the mixture from the dish and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it into bars or squares. Enjoy your homemade No-Bake Peanut Butter Granola Bars with Dried Cranberries & Pepitas!
