Are you tired of bland, boring energy bars that taste like cardboard? Get ready to revolutionize your snack time with these mouthwatering Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Bars that are not just delicious, but packed with nutrition and quick energy! Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or that mid-afternoon slump, these homemade bars will become your new secret weapon for staying powered up throughout the day.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1/4 cup of chocolate chips, and 1/4 cup of chopped nuts. Stir these dry ingredients together until well mixed.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add 1/2 cup of peanut butter and 1/2 cup of honey. Microwave the mixture on high for about 30 seconds, or until the peanut butter is softened and the honey is warm.
- Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the peanut butter and honey together until smooth and well combined. Add in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the peanut butter and honey mixture over the dry ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Stir everything together until the oats, nuts, and chocolate chips are evenly coated with the peanut butter mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the dish, ensuring it is compacted.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into 12 equal pieces. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and consistent texture.
- For extra protein, consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients.
- Toast the oats and nuts lightly before mixing to enhance their nutty flavor.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce honey and add a sugar-free alternative.
- Experiment with mix-ins like dried fruit, coconut flakes, or different types of chocolate chips.
- Line your baking pan carefully to ensure easy removal and clean cutting.
- Allow bars to cool completely to help them set and hold their shape.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
