No Bake Oat Bars Peanut Butter (Printable Version)
Chewy wholesome oat bars with peanut butter and honey. No oven needed, just chill and enjoy.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 cups rolled oats
02 - 1/2 cup chopped almonds or walnuts
03 - 1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins
04 - 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
→ Wet Ingredients
05 - 1/2 cup peanut butter
06 - 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
07 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter or coconut oil
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 - Pinch of salt
# Directions:
01 - Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on sides for easy removal later.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, add rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate chips. Mix thoroughly to distribute evenly.
03 - Place peanut butter, honey, and butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
04 - Pour the warm wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir vigorously until all oats and add-ins are completely coated.
05 - Transfer mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly using a spatula or spoon back to create an even, compact layer.
06 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until completely set and firm.
07 - Lift bars from pan using parchment overhang. Cut into 12 equal bars. Store in airtight container in refrigerator.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- No oven means you can make these even when summer heat makes baking unbearable
- The texture lands perfectly between chewy and satisfying, like a granola bar that actually holds together
- They disappear fast from the snack drawer, so consider doubling the batch
02 -
- Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is the difference between bars that hold together and crumbly disappointment
- These need to stay refrigerated to maintain their shape, especially in warm weather
03 -
- Warm your knife under hot water and dry it between cuts for perfect slices
- The mixture will seem too dry at first, but keep stirring until everything is evenly coated