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Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars Recipe

5.1 from 14 reviews

These Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack, combining wholesome rolled oats, natural peanut butter, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Enhanced with optional chocolate chunks and nuts, these bars are perfect for an energizing breakfast or a satisfying on-the-go treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Additions

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chunks or chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. If using, add in the chocolate chunks or chips and chopped nuts to this mixture.
  4. Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually fold the dry oat mixture into the wet peanut butter mixture. Stir thoroughly until you have a thick, cohesive batter.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish. Press the mixture down firmly and evenly using a spatula or your hands to ensure an even layer.
  6. Bake Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown color, indicating they are set and cooked through.
  7. Cool & Slice: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment paper lining, lift the bars out of the pan and place on a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares to ensure clean slices.

Notes

  • For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
  • Customize by adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for extra flavor and texture.
  • Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
  • To reduce sugar content, opt for unsweetened peanut butter and use less honey or maple syrup.
  • For added protein, sprinkle in chia seeds or flaxseeds when mixing dry ingredients.

Nutrition

Keywords: peanut butter bars, oatmeal bars, healthy snacks, homemade granola bars, peanut butter oatmeal bars, easy baking, nutritious snacks