Peanut Butter Cup Granola Bars Recipe
Introduction
Peanut Butter Cup Granola Bars are a delicious and satisfying snack that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter, honey, and chocolate with the crunch of oats and peanuts. Perfect for an energy boost on the go or a sweet treat after a busy day, these bars are easy to make and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups old fashioned rolled oats (see notes)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 1 cup natural, creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup pure honey
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon unsulphured molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup mini peanut butter cups
- 3 tablespoons melted chocolate
- 3 tablespoons melted natural, creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Step 1: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. Set aside. In a large bowl, combine the oats, coconut flakes, and chopped peanuts.
- Step 2: In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix the peanut butter, honey, coconut oil, molasses, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir frequently and warm the mixture until well combined and heated through but not boiling, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately pour the peanut butter mixture into the oat mixture. Stir with a rubber spatula until fully combined. Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared pan and press firmly down, using the bottom of a glass to compact it tightly.
- Step 4: Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then press the mini peanut butter cups evenly over the top.
- Step 5: Cover the pan with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 1 hour to harden, or refrigerate for at least 2 hours. When set, lift the granola out using the parchment overhang and cut into 8 bars with a sharp knife.
- Step 6: If desired, drizzle melted chocolate followed by melted peanut butter over the bars. Because the bars are cold, the drizzle will set quickly.
- Step 7: Enjoy immediately or store bars in an airtight container, plastic bag, or wrapped in foil in the refrigerator.
Tips & Variations
- Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture or substitute almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Freeze the bars for longer storage and a firmer texture.
- Add dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness and chewiness.
- For a dairy-free version, use vegan chocolate and ensure peanut butter contains no added dairy ingredients.
Storage
Store the granola bars in an airtight container, plastic bag, or wrapped in foil and keep them refrigerated. They will stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the bars and thaw briefly before eating. Reheating isn’t necessary, but you can enjoy them slightly warmed if preferred.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned rolled oats?
Old fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture and structure for these bars. Quick oats may make the bars too soft or crumbly, so it’s best to stick to rolled oats.
Can I skip the chocolate drizzle?
Yes, the chocolate drizzle is optional and mainly for garnish and extra flavor. The bars are delicious on their own without it.
PrintPeanut Butter Cup Granola Bars Recipe
These Peanut Butter Cup Granola Bars combine the wholesome goodness of old fashioned rolled oats, coconut flakes, and roasted peanuts with the rich creaminess of natural peanut butter and a touch of honey and molasses for sweetness. Perfect for a quick snack or energy boost, they are chilled to set and topped with mini peanut butter cups and drizzled chocolate for an indulgent finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 bars 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups old fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup mini peanut butter cups
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup natural, creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup pure honey
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon unsulphured molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- 3 tablespoons melted chocolate
- 3 tablespoons melted natural, creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing for a slight overhang on the sides to make removal easier later. Set the pan aside.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, unsweetened coconut flakes, and chopped roasted peanuts. Stir them together evenly and set aside.
- Warm wet ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the natural peanut butter, honey, coconut oil, molasses, vanilla extract, and kosher salt. Stir frequently and heat the mixture until it is nicely warmed through, about 2 to 3 minutes, but do not allow it to boil.
- Combine mixtures: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately pour the warm peanut butter mixture into the bowl with the oat blend. Use a rubber spatula to stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Press into pan: Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly—using the bottom of a glass can help achieve a tight, compact layer.
- Add peanut butter cups: Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then press the mini peanut butter cups evenly all across the top of the granola.
- Chill to set: Cover the pan tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 1 hour to harden. Alternatively, refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Cut into bars: Remove the pan from the freezer or fridge and lift the granola out using the parchment paper sides. With a sharp knife, cut the granola into 8 bars.
- Garnish (optional): Drizzle the melted chocolate over the bars, then immediately follow with drizzled melted peanut butter. The cold bars will cause these toppings to set quickly.
- Serve or store: Enjoy the bars immediately, or store them in an airtight container, plastic bag, or wrapped in foil inside the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Old fashioned rolled oats give the best texture; instant oats may make the bars too soft.
- Natural peanut butter adds flavor and creaminess without artificial additives.
- Do not boil the peanut butter mixture to preserve the texture and nutrients.
- Pressing the mixture firmly ensures bars hold together well.
- Optional chocolate and peanut butter drizzle adds an extra layer of indulgence but can be skipped.
- Store bars refrigerated to maintain freshness and firmness.
Keywords: Peanut Butter Granola Bars, No Bake Snack, Healthy Snack, Homemade Granola Bars, Peanut Butter Cups, Easy Granola Bars
