Okay, friend, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s seriously dangerous… How can I help you in the best possible way? Think chocolate chip cookies, but in bar form, with a healthy dose of oatmeal and peanut butter. What is butter that makes your eyes roll back? What are some of the easiest to make Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars? Is it possible to disappear faster than I can blink? What makes them like levelled-up oatmeal cookies – chewier, more satisfying, and somehow even more delicious. If you love peanut butter and chocolate, get ready to meet your new obsession. I bet you will forget those boring chocolate chip cookies and make them even more frequently! My kids are mad about it!
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What is Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars?
What are these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars? What’s essentially a chewy oatmeal bar base, studded with melty chocolate chips and topped with toasted marshmallows? Is it a good idea to serve peanut butter and s Think of it as the lovechild of oatmeal cookie and peanut butter brownie. What is oatmeal? It has a subtle nuttiness, and it makes you feel just tiny bit. How do I get better at indulging? What do you think about the peanut butter swirl and the chocolate chips? Is that pure genius? It adds a salty, nutty depth that balances everything beautifully. It is a bar form of deliciousness.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some good reasons to eat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars? How do I narrow it down? First and foremost, the human condition.flavorIs this world out of the world? You get the comforting warmth of oatmeal, the sweet decadence of chocolate, and the rich, nutty flavor of almond. All the goodness of peanut butter playing together in perfect harmony. What is the best thing about this flavor explosion?easyWhat are they to make? Seriously, it’s a one bowl kinda situation, which means minimal cleanup (hallelujah!). What are some of the best ingredients in a curry?cost-efficient. You probably already have most of them in your pantry. What I love most about these are the versatility. You can enjoy them as a quick breakfast on the go, scrumptious afternoon snack, or both. What is the best dessert after dinner? I also really like that my family and I can pack them for picnics. They’re perfect for everything! What are some of the best dessert bars I have tried? What are some of your favorite recipes?
How do I make Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars?
Quick Overview
How do I make Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars? How do you mix dry ingredients with wet ingredients? What is the best way to make the oatmeal and peanut butter in a pan? Swirl and layer with the remaining oatmeal dough. What’s the best part about glazing? What is the easiest way to learn a new technique? If I can do it, you can. And the result? Pure bar perfection.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s *really* soft for easy mixing!)
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (I always splurge on good vanilla – it makes a difference!)
* 3 cups rolled oats (not instant!)
* 1 cup chocolate chips (I love semi-sweet, but you do you) . *1 cup dark chocolate (as opposed to dark) *3 cups peanut
For the Peanut Butter Swirl:
* 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (I always use natural, but any kind works)
* 2 tablespoons milk (any kind! I tried this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
* 1 tablespoon honey (for a little extra sweetness and stickiness) * One teaspoon black pepper (to make it easier to eat)
For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk (start with 2 and add more until you reach your desired consistency)
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended) . * 1 cup water (as an alternative) *
How do I learn
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
How do I get my oven to 350°F? While it’s heating up, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Is it possible to make a sheet of parchment paper and then remove it from the sheet? I always do this – it’s a lifesaver!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. How do I get baking soda out of my bars?
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Set aside. How do I make a light brown sugar paste? What is the best way to do this? Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix the bar. This will make it tough. Fold in the rolled oats and chocolate chips. What do you want in a dough?
Step 5: Prepare Peanut Butter Swirl
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, milk, and honey. Set aside. If the peanut butter is too thick, microwave it for a few seconds to soften it up.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Do not overbake the oatmeal mixture. Spread half of the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Do not overdo the oatmeal. Drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter mixture over the top. Dollop the remaining oatmeal mixture over the peanut butter layer. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the peanut butter into the oatmeal mixture. What do you want in a peanut butter sandwich?
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Is there a recipe for moist crumbs on bread? Keep an eye on them, as oven times can vary!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before glazing. Once cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth. I like to use a fork for this – it gives it sassy, rustic look.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
What are the best bars to serve warm or at room temperature?
What should I serve it with?
What are some good ideas for Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars? To take them to the next level:
For Breakfast:Can you serve a cup of coffee with your breakfast? I like to crumble one over a bowl of yogurt for extra crunch.
For Brunch:Serve with a mimosa and fruit platter for brunch. What are some crowd pleasers?
As Dessert: Warm them up slightly and top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy them with a mug of hot chocolate on a chilly evening. This is my go-to comfort snack!
My grandma always served these with a side of fresh berries, which I still do to this day. It’s a perfect combination of sweet and tart!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars
Want to make sure your Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars are absolutely perfect? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:
Butter Prep: Make sure your butter is *really* soft. This is key to a smooth and creamy batter. I usually leave it out at room temperature for at least an hour.
Mixing Advice: Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough bars. Mix until just combined.
Swirl Customization: Get creative with your peanut butter swirl! You can use a toothpick, skewer, or even a butter knife to create different patterns.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute different types of chocolate chips (dark, white, milk) or add other mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the bars while they’re baking. Ovens can vary, so they might need a little more or less time. They’re done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
Glaze Variations: Experiment with different flavors in your glaze. Try adding a little lemon zest, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder.
I once accidentally used salted butter instead of unsalted, and the bars actually turned out amazing! The saltiness balanced the sweetness perfectly. So don’t be afraid to experiment!
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later. Here’s how:
Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They might become a little softer, but they’ll still be delicious.
Refrigerator Storage: Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’ll firm up a bit, but they’ll stay fresh longer.
Freezer Instructions: Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning on storing the bars, it’s best to glaze them right before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my beloved recipe for Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Bars! I truly hope you give this one a try because I know you’re going to love them. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. What more could you ask for? If you’re looking for other easy and delicious treats, be sure to check out my other recipes. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turn out! Happy baking, friends!
Best 7 Reasons These Gooey Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Rock!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour provides a hearty texture
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder ensure the bars rise
- 1 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats not quick oats
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 0.75 cup smooth almond butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar packed
- 0.5 cup coconut sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 cups chocolate chunks divided
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan thoroughly and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the rolled oats until evenly combined.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, almond butter, dark brown sugar, and coconut sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and eggs until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chunks gently into the batter.
- Press the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chunks over the top evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Cool completely before slicing.
