These no-bake peanut butter cup oat bars combine the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with the wholesome goodness of oats. With just six ingredients, they’re quick, easy, and perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The addition of coarse sea salt gives these bars a delightful sweet-and-salty finish that’s irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Convenience: No oven required, making this a perfect summer treat.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Wholesome Ingredients: Made with oats, natural peanut butter, and honey for a healthier treat.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, on-the-go snacks, or a sweet dessert.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats for a safe option.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 cup all-natural drippy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp water (optional, for thinning if needed)
- Coarse sea salt, for topping
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, peanut butter, and honey. Stir until well mixed. If the mixture is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of water to help combine.
Step 2: Press the Mixture
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Press the oat mixture evenly into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate over a double boiler.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Pour the melted chocolate over the oat layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt over the top.
Step 5: Chill
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Slice into 16 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 16 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for an allergy-friendly version.
- Protein Boost: Add 2 tablespoons of protein powder to the oat mixture.
- Coconut Twist: Mix shredded coconut into the base or sprinkle on top of the chocolate layer.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Crunchy Texture: Add chopped peanuts or almond slices to the oat mixture.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the bars in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking oats?
Yes, but the bars will have a slightly chewier texture.
2. How do I make the mixture less sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before pressing into the pan.
3. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup works well as a vegan alternative to honey.
4. What can I use if I don’t have parchment paper?
Grease the pan lightly with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
5. How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when slicing?
Let the bars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing to soften the chocolate slightly.
6. Can I add mix-ins to the oat layer?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts, dried fruit, or seeds work wonderfully.
7. How do I keep the bars from being too sweet?
Use unsweetened peanut butter and dark chocolate chips for a less sweet version.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and double all the ingredients.
9. What’s the best way to cut clean squares?
Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water and wiped dry between cuts.
10. Are these bars suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re a kid-friendly snack with simple, wholesome ingredients!
Conclusion
These No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Oat Bars are a quick, easy, and versatile treat that’s perfect for any time of day. With their rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors, combined with the satisfying texture of oats, these bars are a healthy and indulgent snack you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for a sweet and satisfying bite!
Print
No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Oat Bars
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in these No-Bake Peanut Butter Cup Oat Bars for a quick, gluten-free treat! With creamy peanut butter, rich chocolate, and a touch of sea salt, these bars are easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes perfect for snacks or dessert.
Ingredients
Condiments:
- 1 cup natural peanut butter (drippy consistency)
- 1/2 cup honey
Pasta & Grains:
- 2 cups quick-cooking oats
Baking & Spices:
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
Liquids:
- 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture:
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, honey, and water. Stir until smooth and well combined. Remove from heat.
- Mix with Oats:
- Add the quick-cooking oats to the peanut butter mixture. Stir until the oats are evenly coated.
- Press into Pan:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Transfer the oat mixture to the dish and press it firmly into an even layer using the back of a spoon or your hands.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second increments, stirring after each interval, until smooth.
- Spread the Chocolate:
- Pour the melted chocolate over the oat mixture and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Chill and Set:
- Sprinkle the top with coarse sea salt. Refrigerate the bars for 1–2 hours, or until the chocolate is firm and the bars are set.
- Slice and Serve:
- Remove the bars from the dish using the parchment paper, slice into 16 squares, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Add-ins like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or flaxseeds can be mixed into the oat layer for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- chill time: –2 hours
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American-inspired