These no-bake chocolate peanut butter oatmeal bars are a simple, satisfying treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a healthier dessert. They feature a chewy oat base, a smooth chocolate peanut butter layer, and a lightly crunchy oat topping, all without turning on the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are quick to prepare and require minimal effort, making them ideal for busy days or warm weather. They are made with simple pantry ingredients, naturally sweetened, and provide a balanced combination of oats, healthy fats, and chocolate flavor. Since they are no-bake, they are also beginner-friendly and great for make-ahead meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Oat layer and topping
2 ¾ cups quick oats
⅓ cup coconut oil, unmelted and packed
⅓ cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut sugar
¼ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate peanut butter layer
1 cup dark chocolate chips
½ cup natural peanut butter
Directions
Line an 8-inch by 8-inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the paper with a small amount of coconut oil. Set aside.
In a non-stick saucepan over medium heat, add the coconut oil, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to gently simmer and the sugar is fully dissolved.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined.
Place the quick oats and sea salt into a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm liquid mixture over the oats and stir until a sticky, evenly coated oat mixture forms.
Press about half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even layer. Reserve at least ½ cup of the mixture for the topping. Place the pan in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
In another saucepan over low to medium heat, melt the dark chocolate chips and peanut butter together, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy.
Remove the pan from the refrigerator and pour the chocolate peanut butter mixture over the oat base. Spread evenly using a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture evenly over the chocolate layer and gently press it down.
Refrigerate overnight, or until fully firm. Once set, remove from the pan and slice into 16 bars.
Servings and timing
Servings: 16 bars
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 7 minutes
Chilling time: 8 hours
Total time: approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes
Variations
You can replace peanut butter with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini for a different flavor or to suit allergies. For extra texture, mix in shredded coconut or chopped nuts into the oat mixture. If you prefer a sweeter bar, add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup to the chocolate layer.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container or freezer bags for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. These bars do not require reheating and are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Rolled oats can be used, but the bars will have a chewier and slightly crumbly texture compared to using quick oats.
Are these bars suitable for breakfast?
Yes, they contain oats and healthy fats, making them a filling and convenient breakfast option.
Can I make these bars vegan?
The recipe is naturally vegan when using dairy-free chocolate chips.
How do I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then wipe dry before slicing for clean edges.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can slightly reduce the maple syrup or use darker chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage.
Do these bars need to stay refrigerated?
They hold their shape best when kept chilled, especially in warm environments.
Can I freeze individual portions?
Yes, wrapping individual bars makes them easy to grab and thaw as needed.
What type of peanut butter works best?
Natural peanut butter with no added oil or sugar provides the best texture and flavor.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can mix a small amount into the oat mixture, but you may need a splash of extra liquid.
Are these bars gluten-free?
They are gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Conclusion
No-bake chocolate peanut butter oatmeal bars are an easy, wholesome recipe that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. With simple ingredients, flexible variations, and convenient storage, these bars are a reliable go-to for anyone looking for a delicious no-bake treat that fits into a busy lifestyle.
These no-bake chocolate peanut butter oatmeal bars are an easy, wholesome treat with a chewy oat base, rich chocolate peanut butter filling, and a lightly crunchy topping. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a healthier dessert.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:7 minutes
Total Time:8 hours 20 minutes
Yield:16 bars
Category:Snack
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
2 ¾ cups quick oats
⅓ cup coconut oil, unmelted and packed
⅓ cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons coconut sugar
¼ teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup dark chocolate chips
½ cup natural peanut butter
Instructions
Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper and lightly grease with coconut oil. Set aside.
In a non-stick saucepan over medium heat, add coconut oil, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. Stir until the mixture simmers and sugar dissolves.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
In a large bowl, combine oats and sea salt. Pour the warm liquid over the oats and mix until evenly coated.
Press about half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Reserve at least ½ cup for topping. Refrigerate the pan.
In another saucepan over low to medium heat, melt chocolate chips and peanut butter, stirring until smooth.
Remove the pan from the fridge and spread the chocolate peanut butter mixture over the oat base evenly.
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture on top and press down gently.
Refrigerate overnight or until fully set. Once firm, remove from the pan and cut into 16 bars.
Notes
Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.
Bars are best served chilled or at room temperature.
For cleaner cuts, warm your knife before slicing.
Can be frozen for up to 1 month in individual portions.
