Instructions

• Grease a 9×9-inch square pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
• In a microwave-safe bowl, add 1 ½ cups (360 g) creamy peanut butter. Microwave for 60 seconds, then stir until smooth (microwave a few more seconds if needed to fully loosen).
• Add ½ cup (80 ml) maple syrup or honey, 1 ½ cups (150 g) old-fashioned oats, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract to the melted peanut butter. Stir with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly combined.
• Transfer the peanut butter–oat mixture to the prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula or your hands to form a compact layer.
• In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips and ¼ cup creamy peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth.
• Pour and spread the melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture evenly over the peanut butter–oat layer. If desired, drag a toothpick through the topping to create decorative patterns.
• Refrigerate the pan until the bars are firm, about 2–3 hours.
• Use the parchment overhang to lift the cooled slab from the pan. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then cut into 9, 12, or 18 squares as desired.