Description
Chewy, sweet, and salty no-bake bars made with oats, peanut butter, and honey. Perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or breakfast on the go.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup crunchy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1/2 cup mini M&Ms (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large saucepan over medium-low heat, combine butter, honey, and peanut butter. Stir constantly until melted and smooth (about 3-4 minutes). Do not let it boil.
- Remove the saucepan from heat immediately.
- Pour the warm mixture over the rolled oats in a large mixing bowl. Add any mix-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, etc.) now.
- Stir vigorously until every oat is coated and the mixture is uniform.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Press down firmly and evenly using a spatula or lightly greased hands to compact the bars.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm (2-3 hours is best).
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment sling.
- Cut into 12-16 squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
Do not use instant oats as they will turn mushy. Crunchy peanut butter is preferred for structure. If using natural peanut butter, ensure it is well-mixed. Bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 14
- Sodium: 15
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 7
Keywords: no-bake, peanut butter, oat bars, healthy snacks, lunchbox ideas, kid-friendly, gluten-free option, meal prep