If you are on the hunt for a wholesome, delicious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt, look no further than these Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars. They are the perfect blend of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats, making them an ideal treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack. With the natural sweetness from ripe bananas and the creaminess of coconut milk, every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, they come together quickly and easily, perfect for busy days or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why This Recipe Works
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are not just incredibly tasty; they are also packed with nutrients. The rolled oats provide fiber, keeping you full and satisfied, while the banana adds natural sweetness and moisture. Peanut butter gives you a dose of healthy fats and protein, making these bars a balanced option for any time of day. The addition of almond flour and cocoa powder ensures a rich flavor, and the optional protein powder makes them an excellent post-workout snack. Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.
What We’re Using
- 2 cups rolled oats: The base of our bars. They provide structure and fiber.
- 2 cups coconut milk: Adds creaminess and a subtle coconut flavor.
- 1/2 cup very ripe banana, mashed: Natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup peanut butter: Creamy, nutty goodness without added sugar.
- 1/4 cup almond flour: Gives a nice texture and added nutrients.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Rich chocolate flavor.
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed: Adds omega-3s and can help bind the bars.
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts: For a crunchy texture and extra nuttiness.
- 1 tablespoon clean protein powder: Optional, for a protein boost.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients.
- Spatula: For mixing and spreading the batter.
- Baking dish (8×8 inches): To bake the bars in.
- Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars from the dish.
- Oven: To bake the bars to perfection.
From Start to Finish: Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out easily once they are baked.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana, peanut butter, and coconut milk. Use a spatula to mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
To the wet mixture, add the rolled oats, almond flour, cocoa powder, ground flaxseed, and protein powder (if using). Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The batter should be thick and cookie-like.
Step 5: Fold in the Chopped Peanuts
Gently fold in the chopped peanuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Spread the Mixture in the Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use the spatula to spread it evenly, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the dish and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into bars and enjoy!
Make It Diet-Friendly
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats and almond flour.
- Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and omit chopped peanuts.
- Low Sugar: Reduce the amount of mashed banana or use a sugar substitute.
- Vegan: Ensure your protein powder is plant-based and use a vegan-friendly chocolate option.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe was inspired by a desire for a healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Combining the rich taste of chocolate with the creaminess of peanut butter creates an irresistible combination that is both satisfying and nutritious. These Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are perfect for meal prepping, and they travel well, making them a fantastic choice for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze wonderfully, so feel free to make a double batch and stash some away for later. Just cut them into bars, wrap them individually, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take one out and let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.
Common Questions
Can I substitute the peanut butter?
Absolutely! You can swap peanut butter for almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any other nut or seed butter you prefer.
How do I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds to customize your bars to your liking.
What if I don’t have almond flour? Can I use something else?
If you don’t have almond flour, you can substitute it with regular flour or more rolled oats, although the texture may vary slightly.
Healthy-ish Favorites
- Healthy Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies
- Vegan Chocolate Cake
- Avocado Chocolate Mousse
Let’s Eat
These Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are not just a treat; they are a celebration of wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes it hard to believe they are healthy. Whether you are looking for a quick breakfast option, a pre- or post-workout snack, or just something to satisfy your chocolate cravings, these bars have got you covered. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or chilled from the fridge—either way, you won’t be able to resist going back for another!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
- Baking dish (8x8 inches)
- Parchment Paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1/2 cup very ripe banana mashed
- 1/4 cup peanut butter creamy, no added sugar
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 1 tablespoon clean protein powder optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly.
- Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out easily once they are baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana, peanut butter, and coconut milk. Use a spatula to mix until smooth and well combined.
- To the wet mixture, add the rolled oats, almond flour, cocoa powder, ground flaxseed, and protein powder (if using). Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The batter should be thick and cookie-like.
- Gently fold in the chopped peanuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Use the spatula to spread it evenly, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown 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, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the dish and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into bars and enjoy!
Notes
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- Substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for nut-free variation.
- Add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds to customize your bars.
