Ingredients
Base
- 2 cups quick oats
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Chocolate Topping
- 1 1/4 cup chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- Flaked sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Combine Peanut Butter and Honey: In a small saucepan over medium heat, gently warm the peanut butter and honey while stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Oats and Salt: Stir in the quick oats and salt until everything is evenly distributed and forms a sticky mixture.
- Prepare Pan: Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the lined pan, pressing firmly and evenly using a spatula or clean hands to create a compact base layer.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Incorporate Peanut Butter into Chocolate: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the melted chocolate and stir until the mixture is completely smooth.
- Spread Chocolate Layer: Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the oatmeal base and spread it evenly with a spatula to create a uniform coating.
- Chill Bars: Place the pan in the freezer or refrigerator to allow the bars to firm up completely.
- Sprinkle Sea Salt: Before the chocolate hardens fully, sprinkle flaked sea salt on top for added texture and flavor dimension.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, remove from the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 9 or 12 bars as preferred. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use maple syrup as a vegan alternative to honey.
- Quick oats can be substituted with rolled oats if preferred, though texture will differ slightly.
- The bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the oats before mixing.
- Flaked sea salt is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian