Craving a sweet treat that won't derail your healthy eating goals? These homemade peanut butter bars are the perfect answer! They're surprisingly easy to make, require minimal baking time, and are packed with wholesome ingredients. Get ready to enjoy a delicious and guilt-free snack or dessert – perfect for satisfying those afternoon cravings or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox. This easy recipe is ideal for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, offering a simple yet satisfying culinary experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free for gluten-free option)
- ½ cup peanut butter (natural, no added sugar preferred)
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars later. This simple step ensures easy removal and clean-up.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded coconut, chia seeds, flaxseed meal, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients beforehand ensures even distribution in the final product.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined and a thick dough forms. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Tips for Success:
- Use Natural Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugar for a healthier and more intense peanut flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter treat, add a tablespoon or two more of honey or maple syrup.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize your bars! Add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars: Add ½ cup of dark chocolate chips to the mixture.
- Protein Boost: Include a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an extra protein punch.
- No-Bake Option: For a no-bake version, simply omit the baking step and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours to firm up.
Nutritional Information (per bar, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator online with the exact brands and quantities of ingredients you use.
These healthy peanut butter bars are a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the guilt. They are also a great healthy meal option for a quick snack. Enjoy this simple recipe, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!