Easy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars
There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, chewy oatmeal chocolate chip peanut butter bar. A delightful fusion of nutty and chocolatey goodness, this treat is perfect for any occasion. The best part? You can whip up this easy-to-make dessert in no time, using ingredients you most likely already have in your pantry.
Growing up, my grandmother would always make these bars on Sunday afternoons. As the aroma filled the kitchen, I’d eagerly sit by the oven, waiting for them to be done. It’s a tradition I’ve carried on with my own family, and these bars consistently bring smiles and fond memories with every batch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out because it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only one bowl and about 30 minutes of your time. The combination of oats, chocolate, and peanut butter creates a chewy, flavorful bar that caters to both kids and adults. It’s perfect for a quick snack, a dessert, or even an indulgent breakfast treat. Plus, it’s highly customizable—allowing you to add your favorite mix-ins for a personal touch.
Ingredients Notes
For the best results, use old-fashioned rolled oats for a hearty texture. If you prefer a smooth bar, you can opt for quick oats. For the peanut butter, creamy is the way to go, but chunky works if you enjoy an added crunch. High-quality chocolate chips enhance the flavor significantly. Remember to lightly roast your oats beforehand for an extra depth of flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter and 1/2 cup of melted butter until smooth.
Step 3
Add 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet mixture. Stir well.
Step 4
Fold in 1 1/2 cups of oats and 1 cup of chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
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Step 5
Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool before slicing into bars.
Storage Options
Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and freeze them in a zip-top bag. To reheat, simply microwave for 20 seconds or leave at room temperature until thawed.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’re allergic to peanuts or prefer a different flavor, almond or cashew butter works wonderfully as a substitute. For a sugar-free option, use a sweetener like erythritol. For added nutrition, you can incorporate flax seeds or chopped nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect as an on-the-go breakfast or a lunchbox friendly snack. Serve them warm with a dollop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or pair with a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal. They also make a great addition to any potluck table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes! Replace the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free for a fully vegan alternative.
What can I use if I’m allergic to oats? You can substitute the oats with quinoa flakes or cooked quinoa. Keep in mind that the texture will change slightly, but the bars will still be delicious and chewy.
How do I know when the bars are done? The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. They may appear soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
This easy oatmeal chocolate chip peanut butter bar recipe has been a family favorite for generations and continues to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a newbie in the kitchen, you’re bound to fall in love with these delightful bars.
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Easy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup butter melted
- 0.75 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup peanut butter creamy
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and chocolate chips.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool in the pan before slicing into bars. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
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