Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars – Chewy, Sweet & Delicious!
Peanut butter and oats are a match made in snack heaven! These Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are chewy, wholesome, and packed with flavor. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a simple dessert, these bars are the perfect choice. Plus, they require no baking, which means minimal effort for maximum reward!
If you’re like me and always on the hunt for easy, healthy snacks, you’ll love these bars. They’re made with just a handful of ingredients, and you probably have most of them in your pantry already. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious peanut butter oat bars!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.
Key Ingredients in Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
- Peanut Butter – The creamy base that holds everything together and adds a rich, nutty flavor.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that keeps the bars chewy and slightly sticky.
- Coconut Oil – Helps bind the ingredients and gives a slight tropical hint.
- Rolled Oats – The main texture component that makes these bars hearty and wholesome.
- Chocolate Chips (Optional) – A touch of sweetness and indulgence!
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the nutty flavors.
How to Make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
- Prep the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and melted coconut oil. Stir until smooth.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Mix in the rolled oats, chocolate chips (if using), vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Press and Set: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, pressing it down evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the bars are firm.
- Slice and Enjoy: Cut into bars and serve!
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
- Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts or seeds.
- Vegan Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey and vegan chocolate chips.
- Protein-Packed: Mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder.
Pairings
These peanut butter oatmeal bars pair perfectly with:
- A hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack.
- A smoothie for a balanced breakfast.
- Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Enjoy a bar with your morning coffee.
- Snack: Perfect for on-the-go munching.
- Dessert: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra treat!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Not pressing the mixture firmly – This helps the bars hold their shape.
❌ Skipping the chilling time – The bars won’t set properly.
❌ Using quick oats instead of rolled oats – Quick oats absorb moisture differently, altering the texture.
❌ Not lining the pan – This makes it hard to remove the bars.
Tips and Tricks
✅ Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth, cohesive texture.
✅ Melt the peanut butter slightly if it’s too thick.
✅ Cut the bars after chilling to get clean slices.
✅ Store in the fridge to keep them fresh longer.
✅ Make a double batch – these disappear fast!
Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a must-try if you love easy, homemade snacks. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a chewy, delicious, and nutrient-packed treat that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re meal prepping or just craving something sweet, these bars will not disappoint!
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil melted
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line a 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and melted coconut oil. Mix until smooth.
- Add the rolled oats, chocolate chips (if using), vanilla extract, and salt to the peanut butter mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm. Cut into bars and serve.
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, use chunky peanut butter.
- You can substitute almond or cashew butter.
- Add dried fruit, seeds, or nuts for extra texture.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- For a vegan version, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 250 kcal The nutritional information provided for this recipe is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.🛒 Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Mixing Bowls – Check out these durable mixing bowls
- 8×8 Inch Baking Pan – Find a great option here
- Parchment Paper – Must-have for easy removal
FAQ’s About Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
No, steel-cut oats are too coarse and won’t blend well in this recipe.
How long do these bars last?
They stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
Can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes! Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Do I have to use coconut oil?
No, you can replace it with melted butter or another neutral oil.
Can I make these without chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can leave them out or replace them with dried fruit or nuts.
How do I store these bars?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.
👉 Check out our Easy 3 Ingredient Rice Krispies Treats next!
