Description
These Peanut Butter Cup Oatmeal Bars are an easy, no-bake treat packed with peanut butter flavor, chocolatey goodness, and a touch of sea salt. Perfect as a breakfast option, snack, or dessert, they’re a quick and satisfying way to curb your cravings! Keywords: peanut butter oatmeal bars, no-bake chocolate bars, easy snack recipes.
Ingredients
Units
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- 1 cup all-natural, drippy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 cups quick-cooking oats
- Water, as needed
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Coarse sea salt, for topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
2. Make the Oat Base:
- In a medium saucepan, heat peanut butter and honey over medium heat, stirring occasionally until melted together and glossy.
- Remove from heat and mix in the oats until evenly coated.
- If the mixture is too thick, add water one teaspoon at a time until it reaches a cookie dough-like consistency.
3. Assemble the Bars:
- Press the oat mixture firmly into the lined pan, creating an even layer. Set aside.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Layer:
- Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring after each, until completely melted and glossy.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the oat layer and spread evenly using a spatula.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
- Sprinkle coarse sea salt over the chocolate layer for added flavor.
6. Chill and Cut:
- Transfer the pan to the freezer and chill for at least 20 minutes, or until firm.
- Once set, remove from the pan and cut into 16 squares or your preferred size.
7. Serve or Store:
- Enjoy immediately or store in a freezer-safe container for a longer shelf life.
Notes
- Nut Butter Options: Swap peanut butter with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter.
- Crunchy Texture: Add 1/4 cup chopped salted peanuts or 1/2 cup crushed Chex cereal to the oat mixture.
- Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats can be used, but will result in a chewier texture.
- Sweetener Substitutes: Replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
- Bar Size: Adjust cutting size for snack bites or larger dessert bars.