Description
Sweet layers of creamy peanut butter meet hearty oats in these no-bake bars, creating a delightful dessert that’s both simple and irresistible. Chocolate drizzle adds richness, making these bars a perfect quick treat you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Base Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 ml) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup (240 ml) creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup (40 g) chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
Binding and Flavor Ingredients:
- ½ cup (170 g) honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
Optional Topping Ingredient:
- ½ cup (85 g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the baking vessel by lining an 8-inch square dish with parchment paper, ensuring edges extend slightly beyond the pan for effortless extraction.
- Create a smooth base by heating peanut butter and honey in a microwave-safe container, stirring periodically until completely blended and warm. Incorporate vanilla extract into the liquid mixture, blending thoroughly.
- Add rolled oats to the warm peanut butter concoction, stirring meticulously to guarantee uniform coating across every oat particle. If desired, gently fold chocolate chips and chopped nuts into the mixture for enhanced texture and flavor complexity.
- Transfer the oat mixture into the prepared pan, utilizing a spatula or clean hands to compress the ingredients evenly, creating a compact and uniform layer that fills the entire surface.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator, allowing the bars to solidify and set for approximately two hours, or until the mixture reaches a firm, sliceable consistency.
- Remove the chilled mixture from the refrigerator and lift the entire block from the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Slice into precise rectangles or squares, revealing a delectable no-bake treat ready for immediate enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure parchment paper overhangs pan sides for effortless bar removal and clean cutting.
- Use natural peanut butter with no added sugar for a healthier, less sweet version that highlights nutty flavors.
- Customize mix-ins like dried cranberries, coconut flakes, or dark chocolate chunks to create unique flavor combinations that suit personal taste preferences.
- Store bars in an airtight container between parchment layers in the refrigerator for up to one week, allowing quick grab-and-go snacking without compromising texture or taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg