Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup peanut butter; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baked Collection

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars whenever I need a quick and satisfying snack. The rich chocolate combined with the creamy peanut butter not only creates a delicious treat but also keeps me energized throughout the day. I often prepare a batch on weekends and have them ready for busy weekdays. They are so simple to make and use just a few staple ingredients that I almost always have on hand.

Created by

Hester Lockwood

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:53:34.096Z

When I first decided to whip up these bars, I was searching for a recipe that was not only delicious but also healthy and filling. After countless trial and error sessions, I discovered the perfect balance between oats, peanut butter, and chocolate. The key is to let them cool completely before cutting, which ensures the bars hold together nicely.

One of my favorite aspects of these bars is their versatility; I can easily swap ingredients based on what I have on hand. For instance, using almond butter instead of peanut butter yields a delightful twist! Experimenting with different add-ins, like nuts or seeds, has also been a fun part of creating these bars.

Why You'll Love These Bars
Rich chocolate flavor paired with creamy peanut butter
Chewy texture that satisfies without being heavy
Quick to prepare and perfect for on-the-go snacking

Ingredient Insights

The choice of peanut butter is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in these bars. Opt for natural or creamy peanut butter to ensure a smooth blend, which will help bind the oats together. Avoid brands with added sugar and oils; instead, aim for pure peanut butter that contains only peanuts and salt for the best flavor and health benefits.

Using rolled oats instead of quick oats gives these bars a heartier texture and chewiness, so they hold together better when baked. Be sure to measure your oats precisely, as too much can lead to a dry mixture that won’t stick well. If you’re short on oats, you can use a combination of oats and crushed nuts or seeds for added crunch.

Baking Tips

When spreading the mixture in the baking dish, dampen your fingers or use a spatula to ensure even distribution; this will help avoid any unevenness in baking. The bars should be baked until they turn golden brown around the edges, usually taking about 20 minutes. Don't be tempted to underbake them as they need that time to set properly.

After taking them out of the oven, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This cooling period is crucial; if you cut too soon, the bars may crumble and lose their shape due to the warm, soft center. I recommend letting them cool for at least 30 minutes for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your bars:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix these ingredients carefully to create a sticky mixture!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and salt.

Prepare Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well. Then, fold in the dark chocolate chips.

Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade bars!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating nuts, seeds, or dried fruit into the mixture before baking.

Storage Recommendations

To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you plan on enjoying them later, consider refrigerating them to extend their shelf life, which can be up to two weeks. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.

For longer-term storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready for a snack, simply remove a bar and let it thaw at room temperature or pop it into the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to soften.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the flavor of your oat bars! For a fruity twist, consider adding chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor. If you want a nutty crunch, mix in some chopped almonds or pecans with the dark chocolate chips.

If you're a fan of different kinds of sweets, you can swap the dark chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips. Each variation can transform the basic recipe into something new and exciting, so don't hesitate to experiment with what you have on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can be great alternatives.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze very well! Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

→ What can I add to customize the flavor?

Consider adding shredded coconut, chia seeds, or even spices like cinnamon for extra flavor!