Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe
Delicious and chewy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars featuring a buttery oat base combined with creamy peanut butter and topped with a rich milk chocolate and peanut butter glaze. These bars are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert, offering a satisfying combination of oats, peanut butter, and chocolate in every bite.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Base 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 Ingredients
- 12 oz milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F to prepare for baking the bars.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using an electric mixer, beat together the softened butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and 1 cup creamy peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring good incorporation of all ingredients.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the two whole eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined for a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined to form the oat-based dough.
- Press into Pan and Bake: Press the dough evenly into a 13×9 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the edges turn golden and the center is set but still chewy.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to make adding the topping easier.
- Prepare Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and 1 cup creamy peanut butter. Microwave for 60 seconds, then stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Spread Topping: Pour the melted chocolate and peanut butter mixture evenly over the warm bars and spread into a smooth layer.
- Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate topping to set at room temperature before slicing into bars and serving.
Notes
- Use old fashioned oats for the best texture; quick oats may result in a different consistency.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- The bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Optional: sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate while it’s still warm for a sweet-salty flavor twist.
Keywords: peanut butter, oatmeal bars, chocolate peanut butter bars, easy dessert, chewy bars, peanut butter dessert