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Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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