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Easy No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars Recipe Perfect for Big Groups

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These no-bake peanut butter oat bars are quick, simple, and perfect for feeding big groups. They combine creamy peanut butter with hearty oats and a hint of vanilla for a chewy, crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (270 grams) old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup (250 grams) natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 4 tablespoons (57 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (90 grams) mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until smooth and fully combined. If butter is too firm, microwave in 15-second bursts until just melted but not hot.
  3. Gradually fold in the rolled oats, mixing gently but thoroughly until every oat is coated and the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
  4. If using, fold in mini chocolate chips last to prevent melting.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press firmly and evenly using a spatula or lightly greased hands.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. Alternatively, freeze for 45 minutes but do not let freeze solid.
  7. Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice into 12-16 bars depending on preferred size.
  8. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Use rolled oats for best chewy texture, not instant oats. Press mixture firmly into pan to prevent crumbly bars. Chill long enough to set bars properly. Keep bars refrigerated to maintain shape. Salt balances sweetness and enhances flavor. For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Optional chocolate chips add indulgence but can be omitted or replaced with nuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, peanut butter, oat bars, easy snack, crowd-pleaser, potluck, no oven, quick recipe

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/easy-no-bake-peanut-butter-oat-bars-recipe-perfect-for-big-groups/