Peanut Butter Oat Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome oats and creamy peanut butter. These easy bars are perfect for meal prep, quick breakfasts, or healthy snacks during the day.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Family friendly and great for kids
- Budget friendly pantry ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep and snacks
- Easy to customize with chocolate chips or nuts
Ingredients
2 cups rolled oats
½ cup peanut butter
⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
1 egg
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional mix ins
¼ cup chocolate chips
¼ cup chopped nuts
¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C or 350°F and line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the peanut butter, honey, egg, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit if using.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the bars are lightly golden and set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Equipment
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
8×8 baking dish
Spatula or spoon
Parchment paper
Tips and Variations
Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber and nutrition.
Swap honey for maple syrup for a slightly different flavor.
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze the bars for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with yogurt and fresh fruit for breakfast.
Enjoy as a snack with coffee or tea.
Pack them for school lunches or work snacks.
Crumble a bar over yogurt or smoothie bowls for extra texture.
Nutrition Facts (approximate per bar)
Calories 220
Carbohydrates 24 g
Protein 7 g
Fat 11 g
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Oat Bars are a simple and satisfying homemade snack that works for breakfast, meal prep, or a quick energy boost. With wholesome oats and creamy peanut butter, these bars are easy to make and loved by the whole family. Save this recipe for a convenient and delicious treat you can enjoy anytime.
FAQ
Can I freeze peanut butter oat bars?
Yes. Allow the bars to cool completely, then store them in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months.
How can I make these bars ahead of time?
Bake the bars in advance and store them in the refrigerator so they are ready for quick breakfasts or snacks during the week.
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes. Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be used instead of peanut butter.
Can I make these bars gluten free
Yes. Use certified gluten free oats to make this recipe gluten free.