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Easy No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Granola Bars

no-bake chocolate peanut butter granola bars - featured image

These easy no-bake chocolate peanut butter granola bars are a quick, delicious snack combining creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate with a chewy oat base. Perfect for on-the-go snacking without any oven time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180 g) rolled oats (old-fashioned)
  • 1 cup (240 g) natural creamy peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup (90 g) mini chocolate chips
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Optional: ½ cup (60 g) chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or peanuts)
  • Optional: ¼ cup (20 g) shredded coconut

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and honey. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth and pourable (about 1 minute total). Alternatively, melt gently in a small saucepan over low heat.
  3. Stir in cocoa powder and vanilla extract into the melted mixture until fully combined and glossy.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, mini chocolate chips, optional chopped nuts or shredded coconut, and salt.
  5. Pour the melted peanut butter mixture over the oat mixture and fold gently but thoroughly until every oat flake is coated and the texture is sticky but manageable.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan and press down firmly and evenly using the back of a spatula or parchment paper.
  7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until firm and sliceable. Alternatively, freeze for 30-45 minutes if in a rush.
  8. Slice into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, wipe the knife between slices or warm it under hot water.

Notes

Use natural peanut butter without added oils or sugars for best texture and flavor. Avoid overheating the peanut butter and honey mixture to prevent oily or hard bars. Press the mixture firmly and chill thoroughly to ensure bars hold together well. For vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Gluten-free oats should be certified gluten-free. Optional add-ins like nuts or shredded coconut add texture and flavor. Protein powder can be added to boost protein content.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, granola bars, peanut butter, chocolate, easy snack, healthy snack, quick snack, gluten-free option, vegan option