Healthy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars

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Indulge guilt-free with these easy, no-bake bars packed with oats, peanut butter, and dark chocolate! Perfect for meal prep, snacks, or a quick energy boost—naturally sweetened and full of protein and fiber.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ No refined sugar – Sweetened with honey or maple syrup
✅ Ready in 15 minutes – No oven needed
✅ Protein-packed – Great for post-workout fuel
✅ Kid-friendly – A healthier treat they’ll love

Ingredients & Substitutions

Base Ingredients

  • 2 cups (180g) rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
  • ½ cup (125g) natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
  • ⅓ cup (80ml) honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ cup (20g) cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins

  • 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds
  • ¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips
  • 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mix the Base

  1. In a bowl, combine oats, cocoa powder, and salt.
  2. Warm peanut butter and honey in a saucepan (or microwave) until smooth.
  3. Stir in vanilla, then pour over dry ingredients. Mix well.

2. Press & Chill

  1. Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper.
  2. Press mixture firmly into the pan.
  3. Sprinkle with chocolate chips (if using) and lightly press in.
  4. Chill 1 hour (or freeze 20 mins) to set.

3. Slice & Serve

  • Cut into bars or squares.
  • Store in the fridge for firm texture or at room temp for chewier bars.

Pro Tips

🍯 Sticky situation? Wet your hands to press the mixture smoothly.
🌡️ Too crumbly? Add 1 tbsp more peanut butter or honey.
🍫 Extra chocolatey? Drizzle melted chocolate on top before chilling.

Variations

🥥 Tropical Twist – Add shredded coconut + dried mango.
🍓 Berry Crunch – Mix in freeze-dried strawberries.
🌰 Nutty Delight – Swap peanut butter for cashew or sunflower seed butter.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats?

Yes, but texture will be softer. Rolled oats give better chew.

How long do they keep?

1 week in the fridge or 1 month in the freezer.

Are they vegan?

Use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Final Thoughts

These No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are the perfect healthy-ish treat—chewy, chocolatey, and packed with energy. Great for lunchboxes, hiking snacks, or beating afternoon cravings!

Pro tip: Wrap individually for grab-and-go ease! 🏃‍♀️💨

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