These No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars are a quick and easy snack or breakfast option. Made with just three simple ingredients—old-fashioned oats, natural peanut butter, and honey—these bars are both delicious and nutritious. They are perfect for on-the-go snacking, post-workout fuel, or a healthy treat.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 2 hours to overnight
- Total Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes to overnight
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (270 g) old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup (240 g) peanut butter, 100% natural
- 3/4 cup (255 g) honey
Directions:
- Prepare the Pan:
- Line a 7″ x 11″ or 8″ x 8″ cake pan with parchment paper.
- Measure Oats:
- Measure the oats into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
- Heat Peanut Butter and Honey:
- Heat the peanut butter and honey in a microwave for 1 minute, stirring every 10 seconds, until smooth and runny.
- Alternative: Use the double boiling method to melt the honey and peanut butter together.
- Add Salt:
- Add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter and honey mixture, and mix thoroughly.
- Combine with Oats:
- Pour the peanut butter and honey mixture over the oats. Fold the oats into the mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Transfer to Pan:
- Transfer the oat mixture into the prepared pan. Using the back of a silicone spoon or your greased hands, evenly press the mixture into the bottom of the pan.
- Cool:
- Allow the mixture to cool completely in the refrigerator for about 2 hours or overnight.
- Cut into Bars:
- Once cooled, cut into desired slices.
- Store:
- Store the bars in an airtight container. Wrap each bar in paper and keep in the fridge for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them chill at room temperature for softer bars.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Pack them in your lunchbox for a mid-day snack.
- Take them on hikes or road trips for a convenient and healthy treat.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils for the healthiest option.
- For extra texture, add in some chopped nuts or dried fruit.
- If you prefer a sweeter bar, you can add a bit more honey to taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: A great source of dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and keep you full longer.
- Peanut Butter: Provides healthy fats and protein, essential for energy and muscle repair.
- Honey: A natural sweetener that also offers some antioxidants and antibacterial properties.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: If using certified gluten-free oats.
- Contains Peanuts: Not suitable for those with peanut allergies.
- Dairy-Free: Yes.
- Free of Refined Sugars: Yes.
Storage:
- Store the bars in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Let them chill at room temperature for softer bars before eating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These bars are incredibly easy to make with just three ingredients.
- They offer a nutritious and satisfying snack option.
- Perfect for meal prep and convenient on-the-go snacking.
- The natural sweetness from honey and rich flavor of peanut butter make them irresistible.
Conclusion: These No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars are a fantastic addition to your snack or breakfast repertoire. With their simple ingredients and quick preparation, they are a healthy and delicious option for any time of the day. Enjoy them as a convenient and nutritious treat. Bon Appetit!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
- Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats give a chewier texture.
- Can I substitute the peanut butter with another nut butter?
- Yes, you can use almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter.
- What if I don’t have parchment paper?
- You can use wax paper or grease the pan with a little oil or butter.
- Can I add chocolate chips to the bars?
- Yes, adding chocolate chips can make them even more delicious.
- How do I make these bars vegan?
- Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Can I use flavored peanut butter?
- Yes, flavored peanut butter can add an interesting twist to the bars.
- How long do these bars last at room temperature?
- They can last for a few days at room temperature, but it’s best to store them in the fridge.
- Can I make these bars without heating the peanut butter and honey?
- Heating helps to mix the ingredients well, but you can skip it if your peanut butter and honey are already runny.
- What other mix-ins can I add?
- You can add dried fruits, seeds, or coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture.
- Are these bars suitable for kids?
- Yes, they are a healthy and kid-friendly snack.