I am making homemade granola bars, I want to switch it up a bit but will still need a binding ingredient. Currently I am using marshmallows but I want

add in some smoked paprika and ground red pepper to the sweet binders ro make them more savory, or add herbs like thyme, and omit dried fruit. I think you still need some kind of syrup that will harden while baking or they will be mushy. be sure to use lots of toasted pumpkin and sesame seeds for a savory bar

Pumpkin puree makes a good binder for a spicy bar.

Brown rice syrup and barley malt are both very sticky and mildy sweet, a little of either might work for your savory bars.

Thanks Marvista!
What do you think about a non sweet binding agent for a spicy bar? For using say asian ingredients like sesame stcks, soy nuts, chiles, french fried onions ect..

glad you aksed, I make them all the time, never the same way twice. I use1/2 honey 1/2 brown sugar. or you can sub 1/2 maple syrup for the honey. you need the mix. honey keeps it kinda soft, the sugar hardens in the baking to create the bars, I suggest you let the syrup cook on top of the stove for several minutes to get a carmelized effect, it will make the bars snappier. I let it simmer away while I am pre-toasting (separately) all the nuts and seeds. one great add: candied ginger