Save Chewy, wholesome bars with creamy peanut butter and oats—perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or healthy dessert. No oven required!
I often prepare these bars when I'm short on time but want something nutritious and satisfying. They're a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups (200 g)
- Creamy peanut butter: 1 cup (250 g)
- Honey or maple syrup: 1/3 cup (80 ml)
- Unsalted butter or coconut oil: 1/4 cup (60 g), melted
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 teaspoon
- Mini chocolate chips: 1/4 cup (40 g), optional
- Chopped roasted peanuts: 1/4 cup (40 g), optional
- Salt: Pinch, omit if using salted peanut butter
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, mix together the oats, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, melted butter or coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt if using until fully combined.
- Step 3:
- Stir in any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped peanuts.
- Step 4:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer.
- Step 5:
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Step 6:
- Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper, place on a cutting board, and cut into 12 even bars.
- Step 7:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Save My family loves sharing these bars as a quick snack during busy afternoons or after school treats that everyone enjoys.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan, parchment paper, spatula
Allergen Information
Contains peanuts and dairy if using butter and chocolate chips. Always check ingredient labels for possible allergen cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Calories 230, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 21 g, Protein 6 g per serving.
Save These bars are a delicious and convenient way to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, substitute honey with maple syrup and use coconut oil instead of butter to achieve a vegan-friendly version.
- → How do I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- → Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely, mini chocolate chips or chopped roasted peanuts can be stirred in before chilling for added flavor and texture.
- → Is it possible to make these bars nut-free?
Yes, replacing peanut butter with sunflower seed butter offers a nut-free alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- → Do I need to bake these bars?
No baking is required. The bars are pressed and chilled until firm, making preparation quick and simple.