I’ve created these Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars as a go-to snack that’s satisfying, chewy, and full of clean ingredients. With oats, natural peanut butter, and the option to toss in chocolate or nuts, they strike a perfect balance between wholesome and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love these bars because they come together in one bowl with pantry staples and require no fancy equipment. They’re chewy, naturally sweetened, and can be customized depending on whether I want a chocolate treat or a nutty protein boost. I pack them for hikes, stash a few in the fridge for snack attacks, or even enjoy them with coffee in the morning.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chunks or chips (optional)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper so it’s easy to lift out later. In a large bowl, I stir together the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, I mix the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. If I’m adding chocolate chunks or nuts, I fold them into the dry mixture.
Then I slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a thick batter forms. I press the mixture firmly into the prepared dish, making sure the surface is even so it bakes uniformly.
I bake for 20–25 minutes, just until the edges turn golden brown. After baking, I let the bars rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment and allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 16 bars. It takes 10 minutes to prep, 20–25 minutes to bake, and another 10 minutes to cool, so total time is around 35 minutes.
Variations
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I sometimes use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
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For a less sweet version, I reduce the honey or maple syrup slightly and add a spoonful of unsweetened applesauce.
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Dried fruit like chopped dates, cranberries, or raisins add natural sweetness and chew.
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For extra protein, I’ve mixed in a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder—just be sure to adjust moisture if needed.
storage/reheating
I store the sliced bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully—just wrap them individually or stack with parchment in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. No reheating is necessary; I enjoy them cold, room temp, or slightly warmed.
FAQs
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, I use maple syrup instead of honey and double-check that my chocolate chunks are dairy-free to keep it vegan.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
I’ve done it—they’ll work in a pinch but the bars will be a bit softer and less chewy.
Do these bars hold their shape well?
Yes, especially once cooled completely. I press them down firmly in the pan and let them cool before slicing for clean, sturdy bars.
Can I reduce the sweetener?
I’ve reduced the honey/maple to about 1/3 cup with decent results—just be aware the bars will be a little drier.
What kind of peanut butter is best?
I use natural, drippy peanut butter with no added sugar or hydrogenated oils. If using thick or no-stir types, the batter may need slight adjusting.
Can I add seeds like chia or flax?
Definitely—I’ve stirred in a tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds for extra fiber and texture.
Are these good for breakfast?
Yes, I enjoy one with coffee or yogurt for a quick, satisfying breakfast that keeps me going.
Can I make these nut-free?
Yes—use sunflower seed butter or tahini and skip the chopped nuts. Just check that your ingredients are allergy-safe.
Should I chill the bars before slicing?
It helps! I often pop them in the fridge for 30 minutes if I want super neat, clean cuts.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—I double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time may increase slightly.
Conclusion
These Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars are a regular in my kitchen because they’re easy, flexible, and hit all the marks: sweet, chewy, filling, and just a little indulgent. Whether I’m making a snack for the week or sharing them with friends, they’re always a hit—and I hope they become one of your go-tos, too.
Print
Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Healthy Peanut Butter Chunk Oatmeal Bars are a chewy, protein-packed snack made with wholesome rolled oats, natural peanut butter, and your choice of sweetener. Naturally gluten-free and optionally dairy-free, they’re perfect for breakfast, post-workout fuel, or a satisfying midday treat. Quick to make and customizable with chocolate chips or nuts!
Ingredients
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup natural peanut butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chunks or chips (optional)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix together peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, stir together oats, baking soda, salt, and any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts.
Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until fully combined into a thick batter.
Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking dish in an even layer.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then lift out using parchment and allow to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use maple syrup for a vegan option.
These bars are freezer-friendly; wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra nutrition.
To make it nut-free, substitute sunflower seed butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
