Chewy Oatmeal Peanut Butter Granola Bars
These Chewy Oatmeal Peanut Butter Granola Bars are the perfect breakfast or snack option for busy lifestyles. Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, peanut butter, and brown sugar, these bars are both nutritious and delicious. The addition of raisins or nuts gives them a delightful texture and flavor, making them a delightful treat that the whole family will love. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, these granola bars are ideal for fueling your mornings or providing energy throughout the day.
16
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
dry oatmeal
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
peanut butter
1/3 cup (smooth or chunky)
light corn syrup
1/4 cup (none)
melted butter
1/4 cup (unsalted)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
raisins or nuts
1/4 cup (optional, chopped if large)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry oatmeal and brown sugar. Mix well to ensure the brown sugar is broken up and evenly distributed.
3
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, light corn syrup, and melted butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between, until fully melted and combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4
Pour the peanut butter mixture into the oatmeal mixture and stir until everything is well combined. If you’re using raisins or nuts, fold them in now for added texture.
5
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Using a spatula or your hands, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan.
6
Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
7
Once cooled slightly, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper (if used) and let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares or bars.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chewy Oatmeal Peanut Butter Granola Bars?
These are nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack bars made with oats, peanut butter, and brown sugar, perfect for busy lifestyles.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 16 servings.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
You should preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
What type of oatmeal should I use?
Use 1 1/2 cups of uncooked dry oatmeal.
Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Yes, you can use either smooth or chunky peanut butter depending on your preference.
How much brown sugar is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar.
What size baking pan is needed?
An 8x8-inch baking pan is required for this recipe.
How long do the granola bars need to bake?
Bake the bars for 20 minutes or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown.
What is the first step in the instructions?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
How do I combine the wet ingredients?
Combine peanut butter, corn syrup, and melted butter in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 20-second intervals until fully combined.
When should I add the vanilla extract?
Stir in the vanilla extract after the peanut butter mixture is fully melted and combined.
Are there any optional ingredients?
Yes, you can optionally add 1/4 cup of raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture.
How do I ensure the bars don't stick to the pan?
Grease the pan with non-stick spray or use parchment paper for easy removal.
What is the best way to press the mixture into the pan?
Use a spatula or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
How long should the bars cool in the pan?
Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out.
Should I cool the bars completely before cutting?
Yes, let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares or bars.
Can I use these for meal prep?
Yes, these granola bars are ideal for meal prep and fueling your mornings.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 7 ingredients including the optional raisins or nuts.
What liquid sweetener is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of light corn syrup.
Is the butter salted or unsalted?
The recipe specifies using 1/4 cup of unsalted melted butter.
What should I do with the brown sugar and oatmeal first?
Combine them in a large mixing bowl and ensure the brown sugar is broken up and evenly distributed.
What texture can I expect from these bars?
The bars have a chewy texture with added crunch if you include nuts.
Are these granola bars good for kids?
Yes, they are a delightful treat that the whole family, including children, will love.
Can I use this as a post-workout snack?
Yes, they provide energy throughout the day, making them a good snack option.
Do I need to cook the oats before mixing?
No, the oats are used dry and uncooked in the mixture.
What should I do if my raisins are very large?
The recipe suggests chopping the raisins or nuts if they are large before folding them into the mixture.
How do I know the peanut butter mixture is ready?
It is ready when it is fully melted, combined, and smooth after microwaving.
Can I use a different size pan?
The instructions specifically recommend an 8x8-inch pan for the best thickness and bake time.
What happens if I don't press the mixture firmly?
Pressing firmly ensures the bars hold together and don't crumble after baking.
Is there a no-bake option for this recipe?
While the tags suggest a no-bake option, these specific instructions require baking at 350°F for 20 minutes.