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No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars

These no-bake bars combine creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate layered over a slightly chewy oat base. They come together quickly without the need for an oven, resulting in a firm, fudgy treat with a glossy chocolate top and a satisfying crunch from the oats. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings in minutes with minimal effort.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup peanut butter natural, unsweetened preferred
  • 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup for sweetness and stickiness
  • 2 cups quick oats for texture and structure
  • 3/4 cup chocolate chips semisweet or dark
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional but enhances flavor
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt for flavor contrast
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil for melting with chocolate

Equipment

  • Baking pan
  • Spatula
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Parchment paper
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
  2. Combine peanut butter and honey in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth, melted, and fragrant—about 1 minute total.
  3. Add the quick oats, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the melted mixture and stir until everything is well combined and the oats are coated.
  4. Transfer the oat mixture into the prepared pan and press it down firmly with the back of a spatula to create an even, compact layer. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to set.
  5. Meanwhile, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in the microwave and melt in short bursts, stirring until smooth and glossy—about 30 seconds.
  6. Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled oat layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula for a glossy, smooth top.
  7. Return the pan to the fridge and chill for at least 30 minutes until the chocolate is firm and the bars are set.
  8. Lift the whole slab out of the pan using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into 12 squares or rectangles.
  9. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week for the best fudgy texture and flavor.