Name: PB &J Healthy, Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup natural creamy peanut butter; 1 tablespoon honey; 1/4 cup coconut sugar; 1 cup rolled old-fashioned oatmeal ((gluten-free, if needed)); 1/2 cup oat flour ((gluten-free, if needed)); 2 tablespoons oat flour ((gluten-free, if needed)); 1/4 cup powdered peanut butter; 1/4 cup vanilla whey protein powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup vanilla kefir; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup organic strawberry preserves

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There’s something nostalgic and delightful about the classic combination of peanut butter and jelly. It reminds us of childhood lunches, picnics in the park, and simple pleasures. Today, we’re elevating this beloved duo into a wholesome breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings or a healthy snack anytime. Say hello to PB &J Healthy, Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Bars! These bars are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making them a delicious and hearty way to start your day. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this tasty treat.

Why It Works Every Time

These PB &J Healthy, Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Bars work every time due to the perfect balance of ingredients that create a soft, chewy texture while maximizing flavor. The natural creamy peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein, while the rolled oats deliver a satisfying chewiness and fiber that keeps you full. The addition of honey and coconut sugar gives just the right amount of sweetness, and the strawberry preserves add that signature fruity punch that pairs beautifully with the nutty peanut butter.

Gather These Ingredients

To make these delicious bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup natural creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup coconut sugar
1 cup rolled old-fashioned oatmeal (gluten-free, if needed)
1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons oat flour (gluten-free, if needed)
1/4 cup powdered peanut butter
1/4 cup vanilla whey protein powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup vanilla kefir
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 cup organic strawberry preserves

Gear Checklist

Before we start baking, gather the following gear to make your process smooth:

Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – precision is key!
Whisk or spatula – for mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
9×9 inch baking pan – the perfect size for your bars.
Parchment paper – for easy removal of the baked bars.
Oven – preheat it to ensure even baking.

The Method for PB &J Healthy, Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making these soft and chewy bars!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of natural creamy peanut butter, 1 tablespoon of honey, 3/4 cup of vanilla kefir, 1 egg yolk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or spatula to mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, oat flour, powdered peanut butter, vanilla whey protein powder, baking soda, baking powder, coconut sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of all dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a nice, soft dough.

Step 5: Layer and Add Preserves

Spread half of the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan. Then, layer 3/4 cup of organic strawberry preserves on top, spreading it gently for an even layer. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the preserves, trying to cover as much as possible.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Do keep an eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Make It Fit Your Plan

You can easily customize these PB &J Healthy, Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Bars to fit your dietary preferences:

For vegan options, replace the egg yolk with a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce.
If you’re nut-free, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
For a lower sugar option, you can reduce the coconut sugar and honey, or use a natural sweetener like stevia.
Feel free to swap out the strawberry preserves for any other fruit preserves or purees, such as raspberry or blueberry.

What Not to Do

To ensure your bars come out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Do not overmix the batter; this can lead to dense bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
Make sure your peanut butter is creamy and not too stiff, as this will affect the texture.
Avoid skipping the cooling step before cutting; this helps the bars to set properly.
Don’t use too much preserves or spread it too thick, which can make the bars soggy.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing and reheating your PB &J Healthy, Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Bars can be done easily:

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
To reheat, simply microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold.

Common Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer.

Can I use other types of nut butters?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with almond butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter you prefer.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats and oat flour, these bars can be gluten-free!

What can I use instead of whey protein powder?

You can substitute the whey protein powder with a plant-based protein powder or simply omit it if you prefer.

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Before You Go

We hope you enjoy making and savoring these PB &J Healthy, Soft Oatmeal Breakfast Bars. They’re a perfect blend of health and indulgence, providing a delightful way to kick-start your day or satisfy your sweet cravings. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us; we love seeing your culinary triumphs! Happy baking!