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Easy 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Oat Bars Perfect for School Snacks

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These easy 5-ingredient peanut butter oat bars are quick, simple, and perfect for school snacks. They are chewy, satisfying, and kid-approved, making them a go-to treat for busy mornings or on-the-go.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180 g) rolled oats
  • 1 cup (250 g) natural peanut butter
  • ½ cup (170 g) honey
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (250 g) natural peanut butter and ½ cup (170 g) honey. Stir well until creamy and smooth. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon salt, mixing to blend.
  3. Slowly fold in 2 cups (180 g) rolled oats, stirring gently but thoroughly so every oat is coated. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of milk one teaspoon at a time.
  4. Spoon the mixture into the prepared pan. Press firmly and evenly into the pan’s corners and edges using a spatula or clean fingers.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges turn light golden brown. Watch closely after 12 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  6. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to speed cooling if desired.
  7. Lift bars out using parchment paper overhang and cut into 12 squares or rectangles. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Notes

Use natural peanut butter with no added oils or sugars for best binding and flavor. Press the mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbly bars. Watch bake time carefully to avoid hard bars. Optional add-ins include chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. For a no-bake version, refrigerate pressed bars for at least 2 hours instead of baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: peanut butter oat bars, easy snack, school snacks, 5-ingredient bars, homemade granola bars, kid-friendly snacks, quick snack recipe