Name: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-481975H57M47S
Total time: PT-481975H57M47S
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a perfect blend of nutty flavor and hearty texture, making them an ideal snack for any time of the day. These bars combine the richness of peanut butter with the wholesomeness of oats, resulting in a treat that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a simple dessert, these bars will not disappoint.

Ingredients:

2 cups rolled oats
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and the oats are evenly coated.

Step 3: Press into Dish

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press the mixture firmly into an even layer using the back of a spoon or your hands.

Step 4: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the dish for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares or rectangles. For cleaner cuts, fully cool the bars before slicing.

Variations:

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the mixture before pressing into the baking dish.
Nutty Oatmeal Bars: Incorporate a mix of nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Note:

Be careful not to overbake the bars as they can become too hard. They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these bars as a standalone snack, pair them with a piece of fruit for a quick breakfast, or top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Tips:

For vegan bars, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Ensure the peanut butter is well-stirred if using natural peanut butter to avoid oil separation in the bars.

Prep Time:

Prep: 10 minutes
Cooking: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 150 per bar
Protein: 4 g
Sodium: 75 mg

FAQs:

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? A: Yes, quick oats can be used, though the texture will be slightly different—less chewy and more soft.

Q: How do I store the peanut butter oatmeal bars? A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a delightful, easy-to-make snack that combines the flavors and textures of peanut butter and oats in a nutritious and delicious bar. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, these bars are a convenient option for anyone looking for a healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether at home, at work, or on the go, these oatmeal bars provide a satisfying treat that’s sure to please.