Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
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I am always on the lookout for quick and healthy snacks, and these Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars have become a staple in my household. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter makes for a delightful treat that's not overly sweet, yet satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip them up in no time. They're perfect for breakfast on the go or as an afternoon pick-me-up, and they keep well in the fridge, making them a great make-ahead option for busy weeks.
When I first made these bars, I wanted something nutritious but also indulgent. The use of oats gives them a hearty texture while the peanut butter adds a delicious creaminess. I learned that to achieve the perfect consistency, a touch of honey helps bind the ingredients together without making them too sticky. It's a balance of flavors and textures that keeps me coming back for more.
I've enjoyed experimenting with the recipe, sometimes adding in chocolate chips or nuts for extra crunch. Each variation tastes amazing and keeps the bars feeling fresh and exciting. My go-to is always a sprinkle of sea salt on top to really enhance the chocolate and peanut butter flavors!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
- Hearty texture from whole oats that keeps you full
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for meal prep
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl to combine.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Bake the Bars
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Pro Tips
- For a twist, add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture before baking. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra treat!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another nut butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can be used as substitutes.
→ How do I store the oatmeal bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before eating.
→ Are these bars gluten-free?
If you use certified gluten-free oats, then these bars can be gluten-free!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
I am always on the lookout for quick and healthy snacks, and these Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars have become a staple in my household. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter makes for a delightful treat that's not overly sweet, yet satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip them up in no time. They're perfect for breakfast on the go or as an afternoon pick-me-up, and they keep well in the fridge, making them a great make-ahead option for busy weeks.
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Extra Tips
- For a twist, add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the mixture before baking. You can also drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra treat!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 6g