Description
A quick, no-bake dessert bar made with pantry staples like oats, peanut butter, and chocolate chips. Perfect for last-minute gatherings, these chewy, chocolatey bars require zero oven time and set in the fridge.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (128g) creamy natural peanut butter
- 2 cups (160g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (170g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (85g) extra chocolate chips for topping
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and grease lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, sugar, heavy cream, and peanut butter. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
- Once boiling vigorously, set a timer for exactly one minute, stirring often to prevent burning. Remove from heat immediately after one minute.
- Stir in vanilla extract and salt until the mixture is glossy and smooth.
- Pour the hot mixture over the rolled oats in a large bowl and stir vigorously until every oat is fully coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan. Use a greased spatula or greased hands to press the mixture down firmly and evenly.
- Scatter 1 cup of chocolate chips evenly over the top. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then spread into an even layer. Microwave for 10-15 seconds if needed to help melting.
- Press the remaining 1/2 cup of chocolate chips onto the melted layer for decoration.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set and bars are firm. Cut into 16 squares before serving.
Notes
[‘Do not use quick oats or steel-cut oats; old-fashioned rolled oats provide the correct texture.’, ‘Ensure the mixture boils for a full minute to dissolve sugar and bind the bars.’, ‘Use room temperature peanut butter to prevent seizing the hot mixture.’, ‘Bars must be chilled completely before cutting to avoid a sticky mess.’, ‘Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.’]
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (1 of 16)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14
- Sodium: 90
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 4
Keywords: no-bake cookies, peanut butter bars, chocolate oat bars, last minute dessert, summer recipes, easy snacks, pantry staples