No Bake Oat Bars Peanut Butter (Print Version)
Chewy wholesome oat bars with peanut butter, honey, and nuts—no oven needed for these satisfying treats.
# What You Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
03 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
04 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
→ Wet Ingredients
05 - 1/2 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter
06 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter or coconut oil
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - 1 pinch salt
# How to Prepare:
01 - Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving edges overhanging for easy bar removal later.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
03 - Place peanut butter, honey, and butter (or coconut oil) in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until melted and smooth, then remove from heat.
04 - Whisk vanilla extract and salt into the warm wet mixture until fully incorporated.
05 - Pour the warm liquid over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly until all oats and add-ins are completely coated with the peanut butter mixture.
06 - Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan. Press down firmly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a compact, even layer.
07 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm and set completely.
08 - Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper handles. Cut into 12 equal rectangles. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The texture is somewhere between a cookie and a granola bar, satisfying both cravings at once
- You can make the entire recipe in the time it takes to brew a pot of coffee
- They actually hold together when you bite them instead of crumbling all over your lap
02 -
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is crucial or the bars will fall apart when you try to cut them
- Letting them chill completely before cutting makes clean squares instead of crumbly edges
- These soften at room temperature, so keep them refrigerated until right before serving
03 -
- Warm your spoon slightly before pressing the mixture into the pan to prevent sticking
- If the mixture feels too dry, add another tablespoon of honey or peanut butter
- For extra firm bars, increase the refrigeration time to overnight before cutting