Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Oat Bar Ingredients

• peanut butter – I used a 100% pure peanut butter, nothing added – these tend to be on the drippy side be sure to give the jar a good stir.
• honey or maple syrup – feel free to use maple syrup to keep this recipe vegan friendly.
• coconut oil – just a little bit helps set the bars
• rolled oats – be sure to use rolled oats here, not quick oats, to get the right texture.
• hemp hearts – these are optional but you could also use flaxseed meal instead.
• chia seeds – I like adding chia seeds as well for additional fiber and heart healthy fats.
• protein powder – you can use whey protein or plant based. If using plant based, you will likely need to add a couple splashes of water and some more coconut oil.

Ready in 30 Minutes

These peanut butter oat bars are SO EASY and take about 5 minutes to throw together. You just need some mixing bowls and a parchment lined square baking pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl add together the oats, chia seeds, hemp hearts and protein powder.

Protein Powder Options

Whey protein powder can be used, or collagen peptides with no substitutions necessary.

If using plant based protein powder, add a few splashes of water and a little extra coconut oil to help the mixture come together. Plant based protein will absorb liquid more than other kinds.

Mix together wet ingredients

In a medium microwave safe bowl, melt together the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup and coconut oil.

Or use a saucepan on stovetop over low-medium heat.

Combine

Add the peanut butter mixture to the oat mixture until combined, using your hands at the end as necessary to make sure it is evenly mixed.

Press into Pan & Chill

Then press the mixture into your lined baking pan and chill in the fridge for about 45 minutes.

You can add a chocolate topping to these bars for the ultimate healthy treat. Simply microwave some chocolate chips on half power, mix with a little bit of peanut butter and drizzle on the chocolate-peanut butter melty goodness.