Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips
If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously simple treat that checks all the boxes—nutty, chewy, and irresistibly chocolaty—look no further than these Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, these bars are packed with wholesome ingredients that make them a guilt-free indulgence. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up these delightful bars in no time. Let’s dive into the world of peanut butter goodness!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
These bars are a fantastic option for anyone in search of a treat that everyone will love. The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate chips creates a flavor profile that is hard to resist. Plus, the texture from the oats adds a delightful chewiness that makes each bite satisfying. Whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them for a lunch, or simply enjoying them at home, they are sure to impress. Not to mention, they are flourless, making them a great option for those who are gluten-sensitive!
What You’ll Gather
To make these delectable Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (crunchy will work too, though I prefer the texture of the creamy)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats (do not use instant oats)
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Mixing Bowls: A medium bowl for mixing ingredients and a larger bowl for combining.
- Spatula: To stir and scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Baking Dish: An 8×8 inch square baking dish works perfectly for these bars.
- Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips Cooking Guide
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to get baking! Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, light brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
Next, fold in the old fashioned rolled oats and semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Spread and Bake
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with your spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing them into squares.
In-Season Flavor Ideas
While these Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips are delightful as they are, you can easily switch things up to keep them exciting with these in-season flavor ideas:
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for extra crunch.
- Incorporate dried fruit such as cranberries or raisins for a sweet and chewy surprise.
- Substitute half of the peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Mix in some cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor, perfect for fall.
Problems & Prevention
Even the best bakers can encounter a few hiccups in the kitchen. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:
- Bars are too crumbly: Make sure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately. Too much oat or not enough peanut butter can lead to dry bars.
- Bars are too sticky: Ensure the bars are fully baked before removing them from the oven. They should be set in the middle.
- Chips sinking: If your chocolate chips sink to the bottom, try tossing them in a little bit of flour before mixing them in to help them stay suspended.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
These bars are perfect for making ahead of time! Here’s how to store them:
Once cooled, cut the bars and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for about a week. You can also freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Popular Questions
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the bars, but keep in mind that the overall consistency may be a bit different.
Can I substitute the brown sugar with a sugar alternative?
Yes, you can use coconut sugar or a granulated sugar substitute that measures 1:1 for brown sugar. Just be sure to check the packaging for any specific baking instructions.
What can I use instead of an egg in this recipe?
For an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes before using).
How do I make these bars gluten-free?
To ensure your Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips are gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Weekend Projects
Looking for more delicious baking ideas? Check out these weekend projects:
Final Bite
These Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips are not only easy to make but also a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their rich peanut butter flavor and chewy texture, you’ll find yourself reaching for one (or two) again and again. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and indulge in the warm, comforting goodness of these bars. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Flourless Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars with Chocolate Chips
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, light brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Next, fold in the old fashioned rolled oats and semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with your spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing them into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for about a week.
- Freeze for up to 3 months, wrapping each bar individually.
