Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Introduction

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a deliciously chewy and satisfying treat, combining the nutty richness of peanut butter with the wholesome texture of oats. Topped with a smooth milk chocolate and peanut butter layer, these bars are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack any time of day.

Ingredients

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

Topping:

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C).
2. Step 2: Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, both sugars, and 1 cup peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Stir in the oats, flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined—do not overmix.
5. Step 5: Press the dough evenly into a 13×9 inch baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the center is set.
6. Step 6: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool slightly.
7. Step 7: For the topping, place the chocolate chips and 1 cup peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 60 seconds, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
8. Step 8: Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the bars and spread evenly. Allow the topping to set before cutting and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add a handful of chopped peanuts or nuts of your choice into the batter before baking.
• Use natural peanut butter for a less sweet, more earthy flavor, or try almond butter for a twist.
• If you prefer, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets to enhance the flavors.
• To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat chilled bars briefly in the microwave if desired, but they are delicious served cold as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add some texture to the bars and works well if you enjoy a bit of crunch in your treats.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are ready when the edges turn golden and the center looks set but still slightly soft. They will firm up more as they cool.

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 458 reviews

These Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars combine the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with hearty oats and a delightful chocolate peanut butter topping. Perfectly soft and chewy with a golden edge, these bars make an ideal dessert or snack for any occasion.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

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

Topping

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

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C) preparing for baking the bars.
2. Cream Butter, Sugars, and Peanut Butter: Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. This ensures a smooth, well-incorporated base.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time and the vanilla extract until fully combined, creating a smooth batter.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing only until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
5. Press into Pan and Bake: Evenly press the batter into a greased 13×9 inch baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the center is set but not overbaked.
6. Cool Slightly: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool slightly to set firmly before adding the topping.
7. Prepare Chocolate Peanut Butter Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and peanut butter. Heat for 60 seconds, then stir until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
8. Apply Topping: Pour the melted chocolate peanut butter mixture evenly over the bars and spread gently into a smooth layer.
9. Set and Serve: Let the topping set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly until firm. Once set, cut into bars and serve.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is at room temperature for best creaming results.
• Don’t overmix once the flour and oats are added to keep bars tender.
• Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture; chunky peanut butter will alter the consistency.
• Allow bars to cool fully before cutting to prevent crumbling.
• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap tightly and thaw before serving.

Keywords: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars, Peanut Butter Dessert, Oatmeal Bars, Homemade Snack Bars, Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars