No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars are the perfect quick treat when you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, but don’t want to turn on the oven. With a delightful combination of peanut butter, honey, and oats, these bars offer a rich, satisfying taste that’s both creamy and crunchy. Topped with a smooth layer of melted chocolate, they’re a delicious, no-fuss dessert that’s ready in just a few hours. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a dessert, these bars are easy to make, gluten-free, and loved by everyone in the family.

Ingredients

• 3 cups (660g) peanut butter, smooth

• 1 cup (320g) honey

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 4 cups (480g) quick oats

• 2 cups (320g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 2 1/2 tbsp (35g) unsalted butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Spray or line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang so you can easily lift the bars out to cut and serve.

2. In a large saucepan, combine the peanut butter, honey, and salt. Heat over medium-low heat until the mixture melts. Stir occasionally and continue to heat for an additional 2 minutes.

3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Then, stir in the oats until fully combined.

4. Pour the peanut butter-oat mixture into the prepared pan. Spread it out gently with a spatula, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Be careful not to press too hard, or the bars may become too firm.

5. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and unsalted butter. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.

6. Pour the melted chocolate over the oat mixture and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.

7. Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set.

8. Once set, cut into your desired size and enjoy! For leftovers, store them at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the fridge for up to 10 days. The bars are particularly gooey and delicious at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Nut butter options: You can replace peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.

• Add-ins: Try adding mini marshmallows, dried fruit, or even chocolate chunks for extra texture and flavor.

• Sweetener swap: If you prefer a lower-sugar version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

• Vegan option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter alternative for a vegan-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store these bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week. If you prefer a firmer texture, store them in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature as they are more gooey and soft. However, if you prefer them a bit firmer, refrigerating them can help maintain their shape.

FAQs

Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats?

Quick oats work best in this recipe, as they have a finer texture and absorb the peanut butter mixture better. However, you can use regular oats if needed, but the texture might be a bit chewier.

How thick should I spread the oat mixture in the pan?

Spread the mixture so that it’s an even thickness, but don’t press too hard. The bars should be about 1 to 1.5 inches thick for the best texture.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. To do so, place them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

How can I make these bars more crunchy?

If you want more crunch, consider adding nuts such as chopped peanuts, almonds, or walnuts to the mixture before pressing it into the pan.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate can add a more intense flavor, so feel free to substitute it based on your personal taste preference.

Can I make these bars without the chocolate topping?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of chocolate, these peanut butter oat bars are still delicious without the topping. You can simply skip the chocolate layer for a more straightforward, nutty bar.

How do I make these bars less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, you can cut down on the honey or use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia. You can also use unsweetened peanut butter for a less sugary taste.

How long do I need to chill the bars?

For the best texture, let the bars chill for at least 2 hours. If you need to speed up the process, you can place them in the freezer for about 30-60 minutes.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make a larger batch. Just use a larger pan and be sure to adjust the cooling time accordingly.

How can I make the bars more chocolatey?

To make the bars even more chocolatey, you can drizzle additional melted chocolate over the top once the first layer has set, or mix chocolate chips directly into the peanut butter-oat mixture.

Conclusion

These No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars are the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy, making them an irresistible snack or dessert. With minimal effort and just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious homemade treat that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re whipping them up for an easy dessert, snack, or potluck, these bars are sure to become a go-to favorite.