- For the Oat Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky, depending on preference)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oat Layer:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Once the butter is melted, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract. Cook and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the oats and salt to the butter mixture, stirring until well coated and combined.
- Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to lightly toast the oats.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Press half of the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to compact it firmly.
- Prepare the Chocolate Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the oat layer in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Top with Remaining Oat Mixture:
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the chocolate layer, gently pressing it down with the back of a spoon to adhere it.
- Chill the Bars:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are firm and set.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once the bars are firm, remove them from the pan using the parchment paper as handles.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve.
These no-bake chocolate oat bars are a perfect combination of chewy oats and rich chocolate, with a hint of peanut butter. They make for a great snack or dessert and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy!