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Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

These no-bake, chewy bars blend creamy peanut butter, sweet chocolate chips, and hearty oats into a nostalgic snack with a satisfying texture. Made by mixing, pressing, and chilling, they come out golden, sticky, and perfect for an easy treat that tastes homemade and comforting.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup peanut butter creamy and rich
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or dark
  • a pinch salt

Equipment

  • 9-inch square baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. Line your 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk or stir until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and slightly fluffy, smelling sweet and nutty.
  3. Add the rolled oats, chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together, pressing down as you mix so the oats and chips are evenly distributed, and the mixture becomes thick and sticky.
  4. Transfer the dough into the prepared pan. Use the back of a spatula or your hands to press it evenly into the corners and smooth the top. The mixture should feel firm and sticky, with a slight resistance when pressed.
  5. Bake the bars in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 15 to 20 minutes, until the edges turn a golden brown and the top looks just set and slightly shiny.
  6. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes, until the edges are crisp and the center is slightly soft but not sticky.
  7. Transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the bars to cool completely, about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes slicing easier.
  8. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Use a sharp knife to cut into even squares or rectangles of your desired size.
  9. Enjoy these chewy, nutty bars as a snack or dessert. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer freshness.

Notes

For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips. For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or dried fruits before pressing into the pan.