No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars
These classic no-bake peanut butter oat bars are a quick and easy treat, perfect for a healthy snack or a grab-and-go breakfast. Packed with protein and fiber, they offer a satisfying blend of sweet and savory flavors without any baking required.
For 8 servings
Line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, and fine sea salt. Whisk until well combined, ensuring no clumps of protein powder remain.
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add the natural peanut butter and maple syrup. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, or gently heat on the stovetop over low heat, until the mixture is warm and runny, stirring halfway through.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Pour the warm wet mixture into the dry oat mixture. Using a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon, mix thoroughly until all the oats are evenly coated and a thick, cohesive dough forms. If using, fold in the mini chocolate chips now.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly and evenly with the back of a spoon or your hands, ensuring the surface is smooth and compact.
Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are completely firm. For best results, chill for 2-3 hours.
Once firm, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and slice into 8-12 equal bars, depending on desired size.
Store the no-bake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 1 month.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use Natural Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter with only peanuts and salt as ingredients. Processed peanut butter with added sugars or oils can alter the texture and make the bars too stiff or crumbly.
- 2Don't Overheat Wet Ingredients: Heat the peanut butter and syrup just until runny. Overheating can cause the mixture to become too oily or seize, affecting the binding quality.
- 3Press Firmly: When pressing the mixture into the pan, ensure it's packed down very firmly and evenly. This prevents the bars from crumbling when sliced and ensures a consistent texture.
- 4Chill Thoroughly: Adequate chilling time is crucial for these bars to set properly. Don't rush this step; a minimum of 1 hour is recommended, but 2-3 hours yields the best results for firm, sliceable bars.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut Butter Swap
Replace peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile or to accommodate allergies.
Add Ins GaloreAdd-Ins Galore
Stir in shredded coconut, chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), dried fruit (raisins, cranberries), or different types of chocolate chips (white chocolate, dark chocolate) for added texture and flavor.
Protein BoostProtein Boost
Experiment with different protein powder flavors like chocolate or unflavored, or add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra omega-3s and fiber.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Sustained Energy
Rolled oats provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy release, while natural peanut butter offers healthy fats and protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Fiber
Oats are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to heart health.
Protein Power
With the addition of protein powder and peanut butter, these bars are a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall bodily functions.
Frequently asked questions
While quick oats can be used, they absorb liquid differently and may result in a softer, less chewy bar. Rolled oats provide a better texture and more fiber.
