These tasty oatmeal peanut butter chocolate chip bars are a great way to start your day! Packed with oats, creamy peanut butter, and sweet chocolate chips, they are both healthy and yummy.
When I make them, I can’t resist having a piece for breakfast, snack, or even dessert. They’re perfect for on-the-go mornings or a sweet treat anytime. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are a must for texture and heartiness. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work too, but they will yield a softer bar. Avoid steel-cut oats as they won’t cook through in this recipe.
Whole Wheat Flour: This adds extra fiber and nutrients. For a gluten-free option, you can try almond flour or oat flour, though it might change the texture slightly.
Banana: A ripe banana acts as a natural sweetener and binder. If you’re not a fan of banana, unsweetened applesauce can be a great alternative, though it’ll give a slightly different flavor.
Peanut Butter: I love using natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils. You can substitute almond butter or sunbutter if you need an allergy-friendly option, or even use a nut-free butter.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work well, but maple syrup gives a nice flavor twist. You could use agave syrup or date syrup for a vegan option!
How Do I Make Sure My Oatmeal Bars Are Chewy and Not Dry?
To achieve that perfect chewy, moist texture, pay attention to the wet-to-dry ingredient ratio. Mixing just until combined ensures you keep the moisture while avoiding dryness. Avoid overbaking too, as this can lead to tough bars.
- Preheat your oven and prep your pan to get a perfect bake.
- Mix wet ingredients separately before adding to dry to ensure even distribution.
- Check for doneness around 25 minutes; you want a toothpick to come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean.
Mix-Ins:
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds) for added texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making the total time around 40 minutes. After baking, you’ll need to let the bars cool for a little while before enjoying them. They’re a quick and healthy option for breakfast or a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This will help make it easier to remove the bars once they’re baked!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a spoon or whisk to mix everything together until well incorporated.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, take your ripe banana and mash it till smooth. Next, add the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s nicely blended.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Together:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined—don’t worry if there are a few lumps; overmixing can make the bars tough!
5. Add Chocolate Chips and Nuts:
Now, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and the optional nuts. Make sure they are evenly distributed through the batter for a delightful texture and flavor in every bite!
6. Pour and Spread the Mixture:
Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly so the batter reaches the edges. If you like, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for a nice look!
7. Bake the Bars:
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Slice:
After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut them into squares.
9. Store and Enjoy:
Keep your breakfast bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the fridge. Enjoy them as a nutritious and delicious morning boost!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Quick oats will yield a softer and more cake-like bar. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with rolled oats. The amounts remain the same!
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you’re looking for a peanut-free option, you can substitute with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any other nut or seed butter of your choice. Just ensure that the consistency is similar, as this will affect the moisture in the bars.
How Can I Make These Bars Vegan?
To make these bars vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup and ensure that the dark chocolate chips are dairy-free. This way, you maintain the delicious flavor while keeping it suitable for a vegan diet!
How to Store Leftover Bars?
Store your leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to stay fresh longer, refrigerate them, where they’ll last about 2 weeks. For a grab-and-go option, you can also freeze them – just wrap each bar individually before placing them in a freezer-safe container!
