why make this recipe

Peanut Butter Granola Bars are an excellent choice for a quick, tasty snack. They are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day. These bars make a great breakfast on the go, a post-workout treat, or a sweet addition to your lunchbox. Plus, they are simple to make, and you can customize them with your favorite add-ins.

how to make Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Ingredients:

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (use verified gluten-free, if needed)
3/4 cup natural peanut butter*
1/3 cup honey or maple syrup (both work well and taste great but honey helps hold the bars together better)
1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
2 whole eggs (use flax egg for vegan-friendly)
Optional add-ins: pinch of salt (omit if peanut butter is salted), walnuts, pecans, almonds, chia, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds, or dried fruit

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350℉.
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. If your peanut butter is solid at room temperature, heat it for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to mix.
Line a 9×9 inch baking dish or pan with parchment paper. This helps remove the bars from the pan once baked.
Transfer the mixture to the lined dish or pan. Firmly press the mixture into the pan in an even layer; pressing it well will help the bars stick together.
If you’re using chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top and press them down into the mixture.
Bake for 15-17 minutes or until the center is baked through and the edges start to brown. Check at 14 minutes, as oven times can vary.
Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into 16 squares with a sharp knife.

how to serve Peanut Butter Granola Bars

These granola bars are excellent on their own. Serve them as a snack or alongside yogurt or fresh fruit for a more filling meal. They are also great crumbled over ice cream or blended into smoothies for added texture and flavor.

how to store Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Once cooled, you can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For even longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag.

tips to make Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Make sure to mix the ingredients well to evenly distribute everything.
Pressing down firmly is key to ensuring the bars hold together after baking.
Try different nut butters or sweeteners for a unique flavor.
Experiment with various add-ins like seeds, dried fruit, or chocolate for added texture and taste.

variation

You can easily switch up this granola bar recipe by changing ingredients based on your dietary needs or taste preferences. Use almond butter instead of peanut butter, opt for agave syrup over honey for a vegan option, or add in spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these granola bars vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the two eggs with a flax egg made by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats, rolled oats tend to give the bars a better texture. Quick oats may result in a softer bar.

How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the center is set and the edges start to brown. You can also test by inserting a toothpick – it should come out mostly clean.