Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Bars

Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Bars are a versatile treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Packed with creamy peanut butter, hearty oats, and a chocolate topping, they’re easy to make and impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Just 15 minutes of prep and 7 minutes of cook time make these a breeze to whip up.
• Nutritious: With 5g of protein per serving, they’re a wholesome option for busy mornings or post-workout snacks.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or pantry staples.
• No-Bake Delight: A simple recipe that doesn’t require turning on the oven.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for meal prep, sharing, or indulging solo.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup all-natural, drippy peanut butter
• ½ cup honey
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• Water, as needed
• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Coarse sea salt, for topping

Directions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Base Layer:
   • Heat peanut butter and honey in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring periodically until melted and glossy.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the oats until fully coated. Add water, one teaspoon at a time, if the mixture needs more moisture to achieve a cookie dough-like consistency.
3. Assemble the Bars: Press the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Topping:
   • Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted and glossy.
   • Pour the melted chocolate over the oat layer and spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.
5. Set and Cut: Transfer the pan to the freezer for at least 20 minutes. Once firm, cut the bars into squares.
6. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or store the bars in a freezer-safe container.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 16 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Nut Butter Substitutes: Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
• Add Crunch: Include ¼ cup of chopped salted peanuts or ½ cup of crushed Chex cereal in the base layer.
• Sweetener Swap: Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Oat Options: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for a chewier texture.
• Extra Toppings: Sprinkle on chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or mini chocolate chips for added flair.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw for a few minutes before eating.
• Reheating: These bars don’t require reheating. Enjoy them straight from the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular peanut butter?

Yes, but natural, drippy peanut butter helps achieve the best consistency. If using regular peanut butter, you may need less water.

2. Are these bars gluten-free?

If you use certified gluten-free oats, the bars will be gluten-free.

3. What if I don’t have parchment paper?

You can grease the pan lightly with oil or butter, but parchment paper makes removal easier.

4. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, reduce the honey or chocolate chips, though this may affect the texture and sweetness.

5. Can I make these vegan?

Substitute honey with maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.

6. How can I prevent the bars from sticking?

Make sure to line the pan with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan for a double batch, adjusting freezing time as needed.

8. What’s the best way to cut the bars?

Use a sharp knife and run it under warm water before slicing for clean cuts.

9. Can I add protein powder?

Yes, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder with the oats for an extra boost.

10. What’s a good substitute for coarse sea salt?

Flaky sea salt or regular table salt in smaller quantities works well.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Bars are a delicious, no-bake treat perfect for any time of day. With their rich, nutty base and smooth chocolate topping, they’re an irresistible combination of flavor and texture. Customize them to your liking and enjoy a nutritious, indulgent snack that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Print