why make this recipe
Peanut Butter Granola Bars are a great snack for any time of the day. They are healthy, delicious, and easy to make. Packed with protein and fiber, these bars keep you full and energized. They are perfect for breakfast on the go, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or even a post-workout treat. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins!
how to make Peanut Butter Granola Bars
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 (both work well and taste great but I feel honey helps hold the bars together better)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- 2 whole eggs (use flax egg for vegan-friendly**)
- Optional add-ins: pinch of salt (omit if peanut butter is salted), walnuts, pecans, almonds, chia, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds, or dried fruit
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350℉.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. *If your peanut butter is solid at room temperature, heat it for 10-15 seconds to make it a more drizzly consistency before adding to the mix.
- Line a 9×9 inch baking dish or pan with parchment paper. This makes it much easier to remove the bars from your dish once baked.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish or pan. Firmly press the mixture into the pan in an even layer — the firmer you press, the better the bars will stick together. If you’re using chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top, then press them down into the bars.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until the center is baked through and the edges are just starting to brown. Start checking at 14 minutes, as all ovens are different.
- Remove from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack.
- Let the bars cool completely (this is important) before cutting into 16 squares with a sharp knife.
how to serve Peanut Butter Granola Bars
These bars are perfect to eat on their own, but you can also serve them with yogurt or fruit for a more filling snack. Cut the bars into smaller pieces for lunch boxes or share them with friends and family during gatherings.
how to store Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Keep your Peanut Butter Granola Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to two weeks, or you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
tips to make Peanut Butter Granola Bars
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan; this helps the bars hold together better.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to suit your taste.
- For a sweeter taste, add a little more honey or maple syrup.
variation
You can easily swap the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor. Additionally, try adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla extract to give your bars an extra kick.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these bars vegan?
A: Yes! Use a flax egg instead of regular eggs to make them vegan-friendly.
Q: Can I use a different type of sweetener?
A: Yes! Maple syrup works well as a substitute for honey.
Q: Are these bars gluten-free?
A: They can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check your ingredient labels to be sure.
Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350℉.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well. If your peanut butter is solid at room temperature, heat it for 10-15 seconds to make it more drizzly before adding to the mix.
- Line a 9x9 inch baking dish or pan with parchment paper.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish or pan and firmly press it into an even layer.
- If you’re using chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top and press them down into the bars.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until the center is baked through and the edges are just starting to brown. Start checking at 14 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting into 16 squares with a sharp knife.
