Healthy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, chewy, and crunchy.
🛒 Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt (skip if peanut butter is salted)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tsp coconut oil (for smoother chocolate topping, optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 tbsp chia seeds or ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- Pinch of sea salt on top for finishing
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👨🍳 Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the base
1. Line an 8x8-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2. In a saucepan over low heat, stir together peanut butter and honey until melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and salt.
4. Add rolled oats (and optional mix-ins like flaxseed or nuts). Stir until evenly coated.
Step 2: Press and chill
1. Press mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or back of a spoon to smooth the surface.
2. Chill in the fridge or freezer while you prepare the topping.
Step 3: Chocolate topping
1. In a small bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
2. Pour over the oat base and spread evenly.
3. Optional: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt, crushed nuts, or coconut.
Step 4: Set and slice
1. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
2. Once set, lift out of the pan and cut into bars or squares.
3. Store in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
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💡Tips:
- Make it vegan by using maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate.
- Want it crunchier? Use crunchy peanut butter or stir in crisp rice cereal.
- These bars are perfect straight from the fridge or freezer — no need to thaw!
- Adjust sweetness by using dark chocolate and less honey/maple if preferred.
- Customize with dried fruits, seeds, or your favorite protein powder for an extra boost.