Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

These Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor. Made with simple pantry ingredients, they are easy to make and perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home. The combination of oats, peanut butter, and a chocolate topping creates a dessert that’s both satisfying and hard to resist.

Ingredients

For the bars:

• 1 cup butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups old fashioned oats
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the topping:

• 12 oz milk chocolate chips
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350º F.
2. Using an electric mixer, cream together butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
4. Gradually add flour, oats, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Press mixture into a 13×9 inch baking pan evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until edges are golden and center is set.
7. Remove from oven and allow bars to cool slightly.
8. For the topping, place chocolate chips and peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 60 seconds and stir until fully melted.
9. Pour topping over bars and spread evenly.
10. Let the chocolate set before slicing and serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve the bars at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to a week to keep them fresh longer.
• Freeze for up to 2 months by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container.
• Cut into squares or rectangles for easy portioning and serving at parties or gatherings.

Variations

1. Add Nuts: Mix chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the batter for extra crunch.
2. Chocolate Chips in Bars: Add mini chocolate chips to the bar mixture for added chocolate flavor.
3. Dark Chocolate Topping: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a richer taste.
4. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the chocolate topping for extra indulgence.
5. Crunchy Peanut Butter: Substitute crunchy peanut butter for creamy for added texture.
6. Sea Salt Sprinkle: Sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet and salty combination.
7. Dried Fruits: Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots into the bar mixture.
8. Whole Wheat Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier option.
9. Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or nutmeg for a warm flavor.
10. Alternative Nut Butters: Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
11. White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for a visually appealing twist.
12. Coconut: Mix shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flavor.
13. Mixed Chips Topping: Use a combination of chocolate and peanut butter chips for extra richness.
14. Pretzel Crunch: Press crushed pretzels into the topping for a sweet and salty treat.
15. Marshmallow Layer: Add a thin layer of mini marshmallows before adding the chocolate topping for a gooey texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?
   • Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer.
2. Can I make these gluten-free?
   • Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. How do I prevent the bars from being dry?
   • Avoid overbaking and ensure butter is properly softened.
4. Can I double the recipe?
   • Yes, just use a larger pan or bake in batches.
5. Can I use natural peanut butter?
   • Yes, but the texture may be less creamy.
6. How long should the chocolate topping set?
   • About 30-60 minutes at room temperature.
7. Can I add protein powder?
   • Yes, reduce flour slightly to compensate.
8. Can I make these without eggs?
   • Use an egg substitute, but texture may vary slightly.
9. Can I freeze the bars?
   • Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
10. Are these bars kid-friendly?

• Absolutely, they are soft, sweet, and perfect for kids.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a simple, delicious dessert that combines chewy oats, rich peanut butter, and a chocolate topping for the perfect sweet treat. Easy to make and fully customizable, they are ideal for any occasion or just for enjoying at home. These bars are sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Print