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Peanut Butter Granola Bars Recipe

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4.2 from 8 reviews

Delicious and easy-to-make Peanut Butter Granola Bars that combine wholesome oats, natural peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup for a perfect snack or breakfast option. These bars are baked to golden perfection and can be customized with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, and seeds.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (use verified gluten-free if needed)
  • 3/4 cup natural peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 whole eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option)

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
  • Pinch of salt (omit if peanut butter is salted)
  • Walnuts, pecans, or almonds
  • Chia seeds, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds
  • Dried fruit

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the granola bars.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, natural peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, eggs (or flax eggs), and any optional add-ins you’re using. If your peanut butter is solid, briefly heat it for 10-15 seconds for easier mixing. Stir everything thoroughly until evenly combined.
  3. Prepare Baking Dish: Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This step ensures easy removal of the bars after baking.
  4. Press Mixture Into Pan: Transfer the granola mixture to the lined pan. Press down very firmly and evenly—this helps the bars stick together well. If using, sprinkle chocolate chips on top and press them gently into the mixture.
  5. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes until the center is baked through and the edges start to brown. Begin checking at 14 minutes to prevent overbaking, as ovens can vary.
  6. Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a cooling rack. Let the bars cool completely, which is essential for them to set properly.
  7. Cut Into Squares: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the granola into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy your homemade granola bars.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free oats if you require a gluten-free recipe.
  • Heating peanut butter briefly softens it for easier mixing.
  • Allow the bars to cool fully before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
  • Flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute for real eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water = 1 flax egg).
  • The choice between honey and maple syrup can affect texture slightly; honey tends to bind bars better.
  • Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is crucial for bars to stick together well.