Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe

Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make treat that's perfect for any time of day? Look no further! Our Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are packed with flavor, combining the wholesome goodness of oats, the creamy richness of peanut butter, and the delightful sweetness of chocolate chips. Keep reading to discover the perfect recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends.

What are Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars?

Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are a mouth-watering dessert that combines the hearty texture of oatmeal, the creamy delight of peanut butter, and the irresistible sweetness of chocolate chips. These bars are easy to make, require simple ingredients, and are perfect for snacking, sharing, or even as a dessert for special occasions. Their rich flavors and satisfying texture make them a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients List for Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

• 1 cup rolled oats
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅔ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus a handful more for topping
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil (see notes above about coconut oil substitutions)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 cup peanut butter, crunchy or smooth
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize these bars to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Oats: Use gluten-free oats if you are gluten-sensitive.
• Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend.
• Coconut Oil: Use melted butter or vegetable oil instead of coconut oil.
• Sweeteners: Replace maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
• Peanut Butter: Substitute with almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut butter of your choice.
• Add-ins: Mix in some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or add a handful of nuts for extra crunch.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut oil, maple syrup, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined.
5. Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips, reserving a handful for topping.
6. Transfer to Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

How to Cook Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking these bars is a breeze. Here’s a more detailed step-by-step guide to ensure your bars come out perfectly every time:

1. Preparation: Gather all your ingredients and measure them out accurately. This ensures you have everything on hand and makes the process smoother.
2. Preheating and Preparing the Pan: Preheat your oven to the right temperature and prepare your baking pan. Using parchment paper helps in easy removal of the bars after baking.
3. Mixing Dry Ingredients: Use a large mixing bowl for the dry ingredients. Ensure they are well combined to distribute the baking powder and cinnamon evenly.
4. Mixing Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, make sure to whisk the wet ingredients thoroughly. The smoother this mixture, the better it will combine with the dry ingredients.
5. Combining and Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, do it gradually to avoid lumps. The batter should be thick and well-mixed.
6. Adding Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips gently to avoid breaking them. This step ensures that the chocolate chips are evenly distributed.
7. Baking: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. Ovens can vary, so check a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
8. Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best results, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overbaking: This can make the bars dry and crumbly. Check for doneness using a toothpick.
• Improper Mixing: Ensure wet and dry ingredients are thoroughly combined for an even texture.
• Wrong Pan Size: Using a pan that's too large or too small can affect the baking time and texture. Stick to the recommended 8x8 inch pan.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Cutting the bars before they are fully cooled can result in a mess. Patience is key!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make your delicious bars even more appealing. Here are some tips:

• Cut Evenly: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares for a neat presentation.
• Add a Drizzle: Drizzle some melted chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch.
• Serve Warm: Slightly warm the bars before serving to enhance the gooey chocolate and creamy peanut butter flavors.
• Pair with a Drink: Serve with a glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or tea for a delightful snack or dessert experience.

How to Serve Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

These bars are versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As a Snack: Perfect for a midday pick-me-up or after-school treat.
• Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• On-the-Go: Wrap individual bars for a convenient and delicious on-the-go snack.

Presentation Ideas for Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

Enhance the visual appeal with these presentation ideas:

• Layered Platter: Arrange the bars in a layered pattern on a decorative platter.
• Individual Wrapping: Wrap each bar in parchment paper and tie with a string for a charming, rustic look.
• Gift Box: Place the bars in a decorative box or tin for a homemade gift.

Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Softened Coconut Oil: If your coconut oil is solid, gently melt it before mixing.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and high-quality vanilla extract can make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Chill the Dough: For firmer bars, chill the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these bars vegan? A: Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Q: How should I store these bars? A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Absolutely. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? A: Rolled oats provide a better texture, but you can use quick oats in a pinch. The texture may be slightly different.

Q: How can I make these bars less sweet? A: Reduce the amount of maple syrup or use a darker chocolate with higher cocoa content to balance the sweetness.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars are a delightful treat that's easy to make and loved by all. With their perfect blend of flavors and textures, they're sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or on-the-go treat, these bars are as versatile as they are delicious. So, gather your ingredients, follow our step-by-step guide, and indulge in these scrumptious bars today!

Print