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Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars Recipe

4.8 from 86 reviews

Deliciously chewy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars topped with a smooth milk chocolate and peanut butter glaze. These bars combine the heartiness of oats with the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, perfect for a satisfying snack or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 1 cup butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 whole large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups old fashioned oats
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Topping

  • 12 oz milk chocolate chips
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350º F (175º C) to prepare for baking the bars.
  2. Cream Ingredients: Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth base.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in the two eggs and vanilla extract until they are fully incorporated, creating a uniform batter.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Press the mixture evenly into a 13×9 inch baking pan, spreading it out to ensure uniform thickness for even baking.
  6. Bake: Bake the bars for 20-25 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft.
  7. Cool Slightly: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool slightly to prepare for the topping.
  8. Prepare Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave for 60 seconds, then stir thoroughly until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
  9. Apply Topping: Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the warm bars and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  10. Set and Serve: Let the chocolate topping set at room temperature or in the refrigerator before slicing into bars and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
  • Do not overmix once the dry ingredients are added to keep bars tender.
  • Use a sharp knife to cut the bars after the topping is fully set for clean edges.
  • Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Keywords: Peanut Butter, Oatmeal Bars, Chocolate Topping, Easy Dessert, Snack Bars