Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cup (360 grams) Crunchy Natural Peanut Butter
- 1/2 cup (175 grams) Honey
- 1/4 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Paste or Vanilla Extract (optional)
- 2 cups (200 grams) Old Fashioned Rolled Oats
- 2/3 cups (130 grams) Mini Chocolate Chips
- 3 tablespoons Mini Chocolate Chips (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper, overlapping it criss-cross wise to create overhang handles on two sides for easy removal. Set the pan aside.
- Heat Wet Ingredients: In a medium saucepan or 4-quart Dutch oven, combine the peanut butter, honey, salt, and vanilla if using. Heat over medium heat for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally just until the mixture loosens and is smooth. Remove from heat promptly to avoid burning.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Immediately add all the rolled oats to the warm mixture and stir thoroughly to evenly coat the oats. The mixture will become thick and stout.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the mini chocolate chips, stirring them into the mixture. They will begin to melt slightly, enhancing the flavor and texture.
- Press Into Pan: Transfer the thick batter into the prepared pan and press it firmly and evenly into one consistent layer using a spatula or clean hands.
- First Freeze: Place the pan in the freezer for 10 minutes to start setting the bars.
- Add Topping: If desired, scatter the remaining 3 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips evenly over the surface. Gently press them into the bars so they adhere.
- Final Freeze: Return the pan to the freezer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the bars are firm to the touch.
- Slice and Store: Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang handles and cut into 12 even-sized bars. Store in a lidded container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Using crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture, but smooth peanut butter can be substituted if preferred.
- Ensure the honey used is warm and liquid to make mixing easier.
- The vanilla paste adds depth but is optional; vanilla extract works as a good alternative.
- Pressing the mixture firmly in the pan helps the bars hold their shape when sliced.
- Storing the bars in the refrigerator keeps them firm and fresh longer.
- These bars are naturally sweetened with honey and do not require additional refined sugars.
- For a nut-free version, you can try using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American