Description
These Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are a deliciously chewy and crunchy treat, perfectly balanced with the rich flavor of peanut butter and the wholesome texture of rolled oats. Ideal for a snack or dessert, these bars combine the warmth of brown sugar and vanilla with a crisp oat base and a luscious peanut butter topping.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (150 g) all-purpose/plain flour
- 1 cup (80 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp baking/bicarb soda
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (125 g) butter – melted
- 1/3 cup (70 g) brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla paste
- 1 cup peanut butter (crunchy preferred)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the bars.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 20 x 20 cm (8 x 8 inch) baking dish with non-stick baking paper, allowing an overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, sea salt, and baking soda. Stir well to evenly distribute all dry ingredients.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Melt the butter and mix it in a separate bowl with the brown sugar and vanilla paste until smooth and combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the wet ingredient mixture to the dry ingredients bowl and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Base Layer: Firmly press about three-quarters of the mixture into the prepared baking tin, reserving around 100 g (about 1/2 cup packed) for topping. Bake this base for 10 minutes.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Topping: In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and maple syrup. If the peanut butter is too thick, gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds to soften it for easier spreading.
- Layer and Top: Remove the partially baked base from the oven. Immediately spread the peanut butter mixture evenly over the base. Crumble the reserved oat mixture with your fingers and sprinkle it over the peanut butter to create the topping.
- Bake Final Bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the topping is cooked through and turns a light golden brown.
- Cool Bars: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool for 30 minutes on your countertop to firm up.
- Chill and Slice: Place the cooled bars in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes until completely cool. This helps the bars hold together when cutting. Remove from the baking tin using the paper overhang and cut into squares for serving.
Notes
- Note 1: All-purpose flour provides structure; you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option but may affect texture.
- Note 2: Using old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats is essential for the chewy texture of the bars.
- Note 3: Crunchy peanut butter adds texture contrast, but smooth peanut butter can also be used based on preference.
- Note 4: Maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener and binder; honey can be substituted if preferred.
- Cutting bars when warm will cause them to crumble, so ensure they are fully cooled and chilled before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American