Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars Recipe
These Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars are a nutritious and delicious snack made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, natural peanut butter, and honey. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a guilt-free treat, these bars combine a soft, chewy texture with optional chocolate chunks and chopped nuts for added flavor and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chocolate chunks or chips
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the natural peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. If using, add the chocolate chunks or chopped nuts to this mixture and stir to combine.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry oat mixture to the wet peanut butter mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined and forms a thick batter.
- Press into pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly and evenly to create a compact layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the bars are set.
- Cool and slice: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper, lift the bars out of the pan and allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a healthier option.
- Honey or maple syrup can be swapped based on preference or dietary restrictions.
- For a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Feel free to customize your bars by adding dried fruits, seeds, or different types of nuts.
