Indulge in the irresistible combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and oats with these delectable Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars. With layers of chewy oat goodness and creamy chocolate peanut butter, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion.

Why Try This Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional oatmeal bars, with the addition of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests, these bars are easy to make and guaranteed to please.

Ingredients Summary:

For the Oat Layer:

1 cup salted butter
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups quick-cooking oats

For the Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer:

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions:

Line an 8×8″ square baking dish with parchment paper, and set it aside.

Making the Chocolate Peanut Butter Layer:

Melt the chocolate and peanut butter together, either in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low heat.

Making the Oatmeal Layer:

In a 5-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and sea salt until dissolved.
Add the vanilla extract and stir until combined.
Turn the heat to low and add the oats. Cook on low for about 2 minutes, or until the ingredients are well combined.

Assembling the Bars:

Press about half of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish using a greased spatula. Reserve the other half to sprinkle on top.
Pour the chocolate peanut butter mixture gently and slowly over the bottom layer, reserving about 2-3 tablespoons to drizzle on top.
Very gently crumble the remaining oat mixture over the chocolate peanut butter layer and press it into place, ensuring the entire top is covered.
Drizzle the top with the remaining chocolate peanut butter mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, until the chocolate is set.
Let the bars come to room temperature again before cutting them into squares.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars as a delicious dessert or snack for any occasion. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for an extra special treat.

Storage Info:

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just be sure to thaw them before serving.

Techniques or Tips:

Be sure to press the layers firmly into the baking dish to ensure they hold together when cutting into bars.
For easier cutting, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and dried between cuts.
Customize these bars by adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or shredded coconut to the oat layer for added texture and flavor.

FAQs About the Recipe:

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter? A: While creamy peanut butter works best for achieving a smooth texture in the chocolate layer, you can use natural peanut butter if you prefer. Just be aware that the texture may be slightly different.

Q: Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking oats? A: Quick-cooking oats are preferred for this recipe because they have a finer texture and cook more quickly. However, you can use old-fashioned oats if that’s what you have on hand; just be aware that the texture may be slightly chewier.

Q: Can I add extra chocolate chips to the oat layer for more chocolate flavor? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this recipe to your taste preferences by adding extra chocolate chips to the oat layer or mixing in other mix-ins like shredded coconut or chopped nuts.