Craving a delicious snack that's both indulgent and nutritious? Look no further! These Healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars are about to become your new obsession. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced bar that combines the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter with the decadent crunch of chocolate chips – all while keeping things wholesome and satisfying. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a busy parent, or simply someone who loves amazing treats, these bars are your ticket to snack paradise!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the salt evenly.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter and honey together for 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract to the peanut butter and honey mixture. Stir to incorporate completely.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the oats and mix until all oats are evenly coated. The mixture should be slightly sticky and hold together when pressed.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and slice into 12 even bars.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for the best mixing consistency.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, sturdy bars.
- For extra nutrition, consider adding chia seeds or chopped nuts to the mixture.
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Store bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little extra honey to help it bind.
- Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for perfectly neat bars.
- These bars are great for meal prep and can be frozen for up to a month!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 143kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
