Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Upgrade your snack game with these irresistible Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars – packed with oats, peanut butter, and chocolate chips in every bite.
The other day, I was standing in my kitchen, thinking long and hard of what to whip-up. As you know, I’m always looking to bake-up my next best dessert – so with a pantry stocked with my usual oats, peanut butter, and chocolate chips, an ‘a-ha’ moment struck. Why not combine these beloved staples into something truly special? And thus, my Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars were born – a delightful fusion of flavors that satisfies every sweet craving.
Why Didn’t I Make Cookies?
Usually, when the sweet tooth strikes, my go-to indulgence is a batch of freshly baked cookies (psst: don’t forget to check out my BEST chocolate chip cookie recipe). However, this time around, I found myself yearning for something a bit more satisfying and nourishing.
That’s when I had the idea of crafting a treat that not only appeases my cravings, but also offers a boost of nutrients.
In this oat bar recipe, I decided to go all out with the oats – their hearty texture and healthful properties make them the perfect star ingredient for creating a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also leaves you feeling pleasantly full and energized.
Why do oatmeal bars make for a (slightly) healthier dessert?
Oatmeal bars can be considered a healthier dessert option compared others because oats are a good source of fiber, which can help with digestion and keeping you feeling full longer.
Oats also contain important nutrients like iron, magnesium, and zinc. In oatmeal bars, you can often reduce the amount of refined sugar and butter typically found in other desserts, making them a better choice for those looking to enjoy a treat with some added nutritional value.
What are the benefits of oats?
Oats are a nutritious whole grain that offer several health benefits. Some of the key benefits include:
Rich in fiber
Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health.
Nutrient-dense
Oats contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as manganese, phosphorus, and selenium.
Satiety
The fiber in oats can help you feel full longer, which may aid in weight management.
Blood sugar control
Oats have a low glycemic index, meaning they can help regulate blood sugar levels.
Ingredients Required to Make Chocolate Oatmeal Peanut Butter Bars
Before making these oatmeal bars, be sure to gather the following ingredients:
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Peanut butter
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Oats
- Chocolate chips
How Long do These Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Stay Fresh?
These bars keep well! We recommend placing them in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days.
Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter melted
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 cups oats old fashion or quick oats
- 1 ½ cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F, and line an 9×9 square pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, mixture together melted butter and both sugars. Once creamed and well-combined, add eggs.
- Stir until well-combined. Add in peanut butter.
- Next, add your flour, baking powder, salt and ground cinnamon. Mix well until a thick batter forms.
- Fold in oats, followed by chocolate chips.
- Spread into lined baking pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until baked through.
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