No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

Ingredients:

For the Base:

• 3 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)

For the Chocolate Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup peanut butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oat Mixture:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the honey (or maple syrup) and peanut butter, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and combined.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
   • Add the oats and mix until all the oats are evenly coated. If you’re adding chocolate chips to the base, stir them in now.
2. Assemble the Bars:
   • Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
   • Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed and compacted.
3. Make the Chocolate Layer:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
   • Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the oat layer in the pan and spread it evenly.
4. Add the Top Layer:
   • Take the remaining oat mixture and crumble it over the chocolate layer. Press down gently to set it into the chocolate.
5. Chill the Bars:
   • Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the bars chill for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set.
   • Once set, remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper as handles. Cut into squares or bars.
6. Serve:
   • These bars are best served cold and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

These no-bake chocolate oat bars are delicious, easy to make, and perfect for any chocolate and peanut butter lover. Enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert!