If you’re looking for a snack that hits all the right spots, the Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe is your new best friend. These bars bring together the wholesome chewiness of oats, the rich creaminess of peanut butter, and the decadent touch of chocolate, all sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup. Whether you need an energy boost mid-afternoon or a comforting treat that feels indulgent without guilt, this recipe is a total winner. It’s easy to make, irresistibly tasty, and perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here – just simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create amazing flavor and texture. Each one plays a vital role, from the nutty goodness of peanut butter to the smooth melt of chocolate, ensuring these bars are both satisfying and wholesome.
- Rolled oats (200 g): Using certified gluten-free oats if needed keeps the base chewy and hearty.
- Smooth peanut butter (200 g + 280 g + 50 g): Creamy peanut butter is key for that luscious, nutty richness throughout the layers.
- Pure maple syrup (100 ml + 150 ml): Adds natural sweetness and binds ingredients together perfectly.
- Sea salt (½ teaspoon plus extra): Just a pinch enhances flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Coconut oil, solid (55 g): Helps with the texture and binding of the chocolate layer.
- Vegan chocolate (200 g): Gives the bars a luxurious finish and a melty, indulgent touch.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oat Base
Begin by combining the rolled oats with 200 grams of smooth peanut butter, 100 ml of maple syrup, and half a teaspoon of sea salt in a large bowl. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and the oats are well coated. This forms the chewy and nutty foundation that gives the bars their hearty, satisfying texture.
Step 2: Form the Bottom Layer
Press the oat mixture firmly into a lined square baking pan to create a compact, even base. Using the back of a spoon or your hands, make sure this layer is well-packed to hold together nicely when chilled. Pop it into the fridge to set while you prepare the luscious middle layer.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Filling
In a separate bowl, mix 280 grams of smooth peanut butter with 150 ml of pure maple syrup until creamy and smooth. This layer adds the rich, indulgent peanut buttery goodness that makes these bars so addictive. Spread this mixture evenly over the set oat base, smoothing out any lumps with a spatula.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
Melt the coconut oil and vegan chocolate together gently until glossy and smooth. Stir in the final 50 grams of peanut butter right away for an extra creamy finish. Pour this decadent chocolate layer over the peanut butter filling, spreading carefully to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for that perfect sweet-salty contrast, then refrigerate the whole pan for at least 2 hours until firm.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these bars, try adding toasted chopped peanuts or a light drizzle of melted peanut butter right before serving. A tiny sprinkle of flaky sea salt on each piece not only looks beautiful but adds a mouthwatering pop of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair the bars with a cold glass of almond milk or a cup of your favorite coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. For brunch, these bars also complement fresh fruit or a vibrant salad, balancing indulgence with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut these bars into small squares for bite-sized snacks at a party or stack them with parchment paper in between to gift in pretty jars. You can also serve them alongside a bowl of homemade peanut butter yogurt dip or swirl some chocolate sauce over them for extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any extra bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This helps maintain their chewy texture and keeps the chocolate perfectly firm without getting too soft.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual bars in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe box or bag. Freeze for up to three months and thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Reheating
Since these bars are best served chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer a softer texture, let them sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before eating to allow the chocolate to soften slightly.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
You absolutely can! Crunchy peanut butter will add a fun texture contrast, but keep in mind it might affect how smooth the layers are. Either way, it will taste delicious.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. Oats themselves are often gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur during processing.
Can I substitute maple syrup with honey?
Definitely. Honey works well as a natural sweetener, though it will slightly alter the flavor. Just make sure to use a liquid form for easy mixing.
What type of chocolate is best to use?
Vegan chocolate ensures the recipe stays plant-based, but you can choose dairy chocolate if not vegan. Pick good-quality chocolate for the best taste and melt.
How should I cut the bars to prevent crumbling?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing. This helps you get clean cuts and prevents the bars from falling apart.
Final Thoughts
Give this Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe a try soon – it’s a delightful, easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without any fuss. You’ll love how the flavors meld together and how straightforward the process is. Trust me, these bars quickly become a favorite, perfect for sharing or savoring anytime you want a bit of homemade magic.
Print
Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delicious and nutritious Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars that are easy to prepare without baking. These bars combine the wholesome goodness of oats and peanut butter with the rich flavor of vegan chocolate, sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup. Perfect as a grab-and-go snack or a healthy treat for any time of the day.
Ingredients
Base
- 200 g rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 200 g smooth peanut butter
- 100 ml pure maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for garnish)
Chocolate Layer
- 280 g smooth peanut butter
- 150 ml pure maple syrup
- 55 g coconut oil (solid)
- 200 g vegan chocolate
- 50 g smooth peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Oat Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, 200 g of smooth peanut butter, 100 ml pure maple syrup, and ½ teaspoon sea salt. Stir well until the mixture is fully blended and forms a sticky dough-like consistency.
- Press Base into Pan: Line a square baking tin with parchment paper. Press the oat and peanut butter mixture evenly into the base of the pan, creating a compact and uniform layer. Place the tin in the refrigerator to firm up while you prepare the chocolate layer.
- Make the Chocolate Peanut Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt together the vegan chocolate, 280 g smooth peanut butter, 150 ml pure maple syrup, 55 g solid coconut oil, and 50 g smooth peanut butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, glossy, and fully combined. Remove from heat.
- Assemble and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate peanut butter mixture over the chilled oat base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle extra sea salt on top for garnish if desired. Place the pan back into the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the bars are set and firm. Once set, cut into 16 bars and serve.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
- Use vegan chocolate to keep the recipe plant-based.
- You can substitute coconut oil with another neutral oil if preferred.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- These bars do not require baking, making them quick and easy to prepare.
