Go Back
- 1 cup rolled oats - 1 cup natural peanut butter - 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup - 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - A pinch of salt - Optional toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or extra chocolate chips When making chocolate peanut butter oat squares, the quality of your ingredients matters. I love using natural peanut butter because it has no added sugar or oils. It gives a rich, nutty taste that pairs well with chocolate. You can choose honey or maple syrup based on your preference. Both add sweetness and moisture to the mix. Rolled oats are the base of this recipe. They provide fiber and a satisfying texture. Dark chocolate chips add a touch of sweetness and richness. I prefer using unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor without extra sugar. Do not forget the vanilla extract! It enhances the overall taste. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and makes the flavors pop. For toppings, get creative! Chopped nuts add crunch, while shredded coconut offers a tropical twist. Extra chocolate chips can make the squares even more decadent. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix them evenly. This mix adds a rich chocolate flavor to the oats. It’s important to blend it thoroughly to ensure every bite is tasty. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm 1 cup of natural peanut butter and 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup) together. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth. This step makes the peanut butter easier to mix with the oats. Once smooth, remove it from the heat, and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry oat blend in the large bowl. Mix everything together until it is fully combined. You want the oats to be completely coated. If it feels a bit dry, keep mixing until it starts to clump together. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Make sure the paper hangs over the sides for easy lifting later. Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of the pan. You can use a spatula or your hands to pack it down well. This step is key for making sure the squares hold together. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This time allows the squares to set properly. Chilling helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to cut into squares later. Once chilled, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and cut it into squares. You can make them as big or small as you like. These squares are perfect for snacks or desserts! To create compact squares that hold together, start by mixing the dry ingredients well. Mix the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl. This step helps ensure an even flavor. When you add the warm peanut butter mixture, it is key to mix thoroughly. You want every oat coated in that delicious blend. After combining, press the mixture firmly into your pan. This compaction helps the squares stay together when cut. If they crumble, they may need more pressing. You can use different sweeteners in this recipe. While honey is great, maple syrup works too. Agave syrup is another option if you prefer it. Each sweetener brings a unique taste. Maple syrup adds a slight nuttiness. Agave is milder and less intense. You can try each and see which you like best. Just keep the same amount when swapping sweeteners. To make these squares even better, consider adding spices. A dash of cinnamon can give warmth. Nutmeg adds a cozy feel too. You can even try adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor. If you want a fruit twist, try adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. These options bring fun new flavors to your squares and can make them unique. {{image_4}} If you want to make these squares nut-free, use sunflower seed butter instead. Sunflower seed butter has a similar creamy texture and rich taste. It also offers a safe option for those with nut allergies. Just substitute the peanut butter with an equal amount of sunflower seed butter. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You’ll still enjoy a tasty treat! To keep this recipe vegan, ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey. Maple syrup adds sweetness and keeps the squares plant-based. Use dark chocolate chips that are labeled vegan. This way, you can enjoy these chocolate peanut butter oat squares without any animal products. These small changes make a big difference. For a gluten-free version, make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats. Regular oats may contain gluten due to cross-contamination. Check the packaging for a gluten-free label. This simple swap allows everyone to enjoy these squares, regardless of dietary needs. You can still savor the same great flavors while sticking to gluten-free guidelines. Store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Squares in the fridge for the best taste. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. These delicious squares can last up to a week in the fridge. In the freezer, they maintain their flavor for about three months. You can enjoy them as a quick snack or dessert any time. To enjoy your frozen squares, simply take one out and let it thaw at room temperature. If you prefer a warm treat, microwave it for about 10 to 15 seconds. This makes the chocolate soft and melty, enhancing the taste. Enjoy your tasty snack! You can use either creamy or crunchy peanut butter. Creamy peanut butter gives a smooth texture to the squares. It blends well and makes the mixture easy to press. On the other hand, crunchy peanut butter adds a fun bite. It gives the squares some crunch and extra flavor. If you want a more classic taste, go with creamy. If you like texture, try crunchy. To make these squares healthier, you can reduce the honey or maple syrup. Try cutting it to 1/3 cup instead of 1/2 cup. You can also add protein. Mixing in some protein powder can boost the health factor. Another option is to use nut butter that contains added protein. Lastly, consider adding seeds or nuts for healthy fats. If the mixture feels too dry, don’t worry! You can add a little more honey or maple syrup. Start with a tablespoon, and mix it in well. If it’s still dry, try adding a splash of water or milk. This will help bind the oats and chocolate. Make sure to mix well until you get the right texture. These no-bake chocolate peanut butter squares are easy to make and tasty. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for great results. You can customize them to fit your needs, like making them vegan or nut-free. Store them well to keep them fresh and enjoy them later. With these simple steps, you can create a delicious treat that everyone will love. Try it out and enjoy your sweet creation!

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Squares No Bake

Indulge in the rich flavors of these delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Squares! Packed with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, natural peanut butter, and dark chocolate chips, these easy-to-make treats are perfect for a healthy snack or dessert. Ready in just 2 hours, they can be customized with your favorite toppings! Click through to explore the full recipe and make your own mouthwatering squares today!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup natural peanut butter

1/2 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Optional toppings: chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or extra chocolate chips

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir them together thoroughly to ensure that the cocoa powder is evenly distributed throughout the oats.

    In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) together until they transform into a smooth, liquid mixture, stirring continuously. Once combined, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

      Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the dry oat and cocoa blend in the large bowl. Mix everything together until it is well combined, and the mixture starts to clump together, ensuring every oat is coated.

        Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, reserving a few for sprinkling on top if you wish for a decorative finish.

          Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides to facilitate easy removal later. Firmly press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan using a spatula or your hands, ensuring it's compact.

            If desired, sprinkle any remaining chocolate chips or additional toppings like chopped nuts or shredded coconut over the pressed mixture, gently pressing them in for better adhesion.

              Place the prepared pan in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the squares to set properly. Once firm, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment overhang, and cut into squares.

                Vorbereitungszeit: 10 Minuten | Gesamtzeit: 2 Stunden 10 Minuten | Portionen: 12 Riegel

                  - Präsentationstipps: Arrange the squares on a decorative platter and sprinkle with chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for an enticing finish. These delightful squares make a perfect healthy snack or dessert to enjoy!