Description
Crunchy and satisfying peanut butter oatmeal bars that combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and oats with a touch of sweetness from honey and brown sugar. These bars are perfect for a quick snack, energy boost, or a wholesome dessert, with an option to add chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Melt the wet ingredients: In a saucepan over low heat, combine the butter, peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are fully melted and integrated.
- Add vanilla extract: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the mixture with sweet aroma.
- Combine with oats: Gradually mix in the rolled oats until everything is thoroughly combined, forming a sticky, uniform mixture.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the oat mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down evenly and firmly to ensure the bars hold together once baked.
- Add chocolate chips (optional): Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top, pressing them lightly into the surface to help them adhere during baking.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the bars feel set.
- Cool and cut: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 12 bars to serve.
Notes
- For softer bars, reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes to keep them chewier.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter for a different flavor profile.
- Adding a pinch of salt can help balance the sweetness if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Snack / Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American