5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy snack that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be made nut-free with a simple substitution. The bars have a delightful peanut butter flavor complemented by the richness of chocolate chips. Plus, they’re soft-baked, making them a perfect grab-and-go option for busy mornings or as an afternoon snack.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup natural peanut butter (or any nut/seed butter of choice)
• ⅓ cup maple syrup (or honey)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (milk or dark)
• 1 large egg (Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, maple syrup, chocolate chips, and the egg. Stir until well mixed.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden and set.
5. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 bars. The preparation takes about 5 minutes, and baking time is around 12–15 minutes. Total time: 20 minutes.

Variations

• Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
• Egg-Free: Use a flax egg substitute (2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons of water).
• Dairy-Free: Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Extra Flavor: Add in some dried fruit, chia seeds, or coconut flakes for additional texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the granola bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. If you prefer, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months.

FAQs

How can I make these granola bars vegan?

To make them vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water).

Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes! Feel free to substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.

Are these granola bars gluten-free?

Yes, they are gluten-free, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.

How do I know when the granola bars are done baking?

The granola bars should be golden brown around the edges and firm to the touch. If a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, they’re done.

Can I make these granola bars without chocolate chips?

Yes, you can omit the chocolate chips or replace them with dried fruit or nuts.

How do I prevent the bars from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well-combined and press it firmly into the pan before baking. The egg or flax egg helps hold everything together.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey can be used as a substitute for maple syrup.

Can I make these granola bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars can be prepared a few days in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Are these granola bars suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These granola bars are kid-friendly, and you can even let your children pick their favorite add-ins, like dried fruit or extra chocolate chips.

Can I freeze these granola bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Just wrap them individually or store in a freezer-safe bag.

Conclusion

These 5-ingredient peanut butter granola bars are the ultimate healthy snack. Quick and easy to prepare, they are made with wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about eating. Whether you’re looking for a convenient snack or a treat for your kids, these bars are a great choice. Try them today, and you'll never go back to store-bought granola bars again!