Peanut Butter and Chocolate Granola Bars Recipe

These no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars are the perfect snack for a busy day. With the goodness of oats, the crunch of rice krispies, the richness of peanut butter and the sweet hint of honey, these bars are both nutritious and delicious. Plus, they're easy to make, requiring no oven time at all. Just mix, press, and chill!

Photos of No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars Recipe

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples like quick-cooking oats, peanut butter, and honey. The rice krispies cereal provide a wonderful crunch to these bars and are easily available in the cereal aisle of most supermarkets. Mini chocolate chips are used for a small burst of chocolate in every bite, but if they're not readily available, you can chop up regular sized chocolate chips.

No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bar Ingredients

quick cooking oats: These are oats that have been pre-cooked, dried, and then rolled. They cook more quickly than steel-cut oats and hold their shape relatively well.

rice krispies cereal: These add a delightful crunch to the bars, giving a nice textural contrast.

coconut oil: This gives a slight hint of coconut flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.

honey: It acts as a sweetener and binder in this recipe.

light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.

peanut butter: It gives a rich, nutty taste to the bars. Use creamy for a smooth texture.

vanilla extract: This enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

mini chocolate chips: These give a delicious chocolatey taste to the bars.

One reader, Lane Wilkes says:

This no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars recipe is a game-changer! It's so easy to make and tastes absolutely delicious. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips is heavenly. Plus, the bars hold together really well. I highly recommend trying this recipe!

Lane Wilkes

Techniques for Making No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

How to prepare the oat and cereal mixture: Combine the quick cooking oats and rice krispies cereal in a medium bowl and set aside.

How to make the peanut butter and honey mixture: In a small saucepan, combine the coconut oil, honey, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat. Add the peanut butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth.

How to press the mixture into the baking pan: Once the oat and cereal mixture is coated with the peanut butter and honey mixture, press it into an 8x8-inch baking pan or a similar size pan.

How to top the bars with chocolate chips: Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over the pressed mixture in the baking pan and gently press them down.

How to allow the bars to set: Let the mixture set for several hours or until it becomes firm.

How to cut the bars: Once the mixture has set, cut it into 10 bars.

How to wrap the bars for lunches: If you plan to pack the bars for lunches, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap.

How To Make No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

The best granola bars to make are ones that are no-bake, soft and chewy, and loaded with with chocolate chips, peanut butter, and oats!

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupsquick cooking oats
1cuprice krispies cereal
2tbspcoconut oil
¼cuphoney
¼cuplight brown sugar,packed
¼cuppeanut butter,creamy or chunky
1tspvanilla extract
2tbspmini chocolate chips

Instructions

In a medium bowl combine oats and cereal; set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine the coconut oil, honey and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat until sugar is dissolved.
Bring to a boil and remove from heat. Add the peanut butter and vanilla and stir until mixture is smooth.
Pour over the oat mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Press the mixture into a 8×8-inch baking pan. Top with mini chocolate chips and press down slightly.
Allow to set for several hours or until firm. Cut into 10 bars.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 248.25kcal
Fat: 8.89g
Saturated Fat: 3.82g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.66g
Carbohydrates: 36.87g
Fiber: 3.73g
Sugar: 13.22g
Protein: 7.04g
Cholesterol: 0.42mg
Sodium: 18.93mg
Calcium: 26.95mg
Potassium: 182.99mg
Iron: 2.49mg
Vitamin A: 29.99µg
Vitamin C: 1.73mg

Helpful Technique for Making No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

To ensure your no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars have a consistent texture and flavor, make sure to thoroughly mix the oats and cereal with the peanut butter and honey mixture. This will help to evenly distribute the flavors and prevent any one ingredient from overpowering the others. Additionally, when pressing the mixture into the baking pan, apply firm and even pressure to ensure the bars hold together well.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Granola Bars

Prep ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and measure them out before starting. This will help streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly combine ingredients like oats, cereal, and peanut butter, saving time and effort compared to mixing by hand.

Chill for faster setting: Place the granola bars in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process, allowing you to enjoy them sooner.

Cut with a sharp knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars, ensuring clean and precise cuts without crumbling the mixture.

Store in airtight containers: Store the bars in airtight containers to maintain freshness and make them easily accessible for a quick snack.

Substitute Ingredients For No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars Recipe

quick cooking oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can be used as a gluten-free alternative to oats and provide a similar texture and nutty flavor.
rice krispies cereal - Substitute with crispy rice cereal: Crispy rice cereal is a suitable alternative that provides a similar crunchy texture and mild flavor.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil to add richness and flavor to the granola bars.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can replace honey as a natural sweetener and adds a distinct flavor to the granola bars.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a less refined alternative to brown sugar, providing a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, providing a similar creamy texture and nutty flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used to add a hint of nutty flavor to the granola bars, similar to vanilla extract.
mini chocolate chips - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries can be used as a fruity alternative to chocolate chips, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to the granola bars.

Presentation Ideas for Granola Bars

Elevate the plating: When presenting the no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Consider using a rectangular plate to showcase the bars in a neat and organized manner, allowing the chocolate chips to glisten under the light.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating a light dusting of powdered sugar around the edges of the plate. This delicate touch will enhance the overall visual appeal and add a subtle hint of sweetness to the presentation.
Utilize complementary elements: Pair the granola bars with a drizzle of rich, dark chocolate sauce on the plate to create a stunning contrast and elevate the overall decadence of the dish. The glossy finish of the chocolate will add a luxurious touch to the presentation.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each granola bar, ensuring they are aligned perfectly and spaced evenly on the plate. This meticulous approach demonstrates attention to detail and elevates the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider serving the granola bars on a bed of crushed nuts or toasted coconut to introduce a delightful textural element to the dish. This addition will provide a delightful crunch and elevate the overall sensory experience.

Essential Tools for Making No-Bake Granola Bars

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the granola bar mixture.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used to heat and melt the coconut oil, honey, and brown sugar together.
8x8-inch baking pan: An 8x8-inch baking pan is used to press and set the granola bar mixture before cutting it into bars.
Food processor: A food processor can be used to quickly and evenly chop the oats and cereal if a finer texture is desired.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to individually wrap the granola bars for easy storage and transport.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for No-Bake Granola Bars

Once the granola bars have set and been cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra fresh, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of bars to prevent sticking.
For longer storage, these no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and make it easy to grab a single bar when needed.
To thaw frozen granola bars, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you're packing them in a lunchbox, they'll be perfectly thawed and ready to eat by lunchtime. Alternatively, you can microwave a frozen bar for 10-15 seconds to speed up the thawing process.
If your granola bars contain ingredients that are prone to spoilage, such as fresh fruit or nuts, it's best to store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container and consume within 7-10 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Interesting Fact About No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

The recipe contains peanut butter and chocolate chips, which are a great source of protein and antioxidants, respectively.

Is Making Granola Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The versatility of the recipe allows for easy substitutions, catering to individual preferences and dietary restrictions. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $10, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10, considering its simplicity, nutritional value, and the delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips.

Are No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars Healthy?

The no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars recipe is a tasty treat, but it falls short in terms of being a healthy snack. While it does contain some nutritious ingredients like oats and peanut butter, which provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats, the recipe also includes less healthy components such as rice krispies cereal, brown sugar, and chocolate chips. These ingredients add extra calories, sugar, and processed carbohydrates to the bars, making them more of an occasional indulgence rather than a regular healthy snack.

To improve the nutritional value of these granola bars, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the rice krispies cereal with additional oats or a healthier alternative like puffed quinoa or puffed brown rice
Reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like dates or maple syrup
Increase the amount of peanut butter to boost the protein and healthy fat content
Add in some chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for extra nutrients and flavor
Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a healthier chocolate option with less sugar and more antioxidants
Experiment with adding in some superfood ingredients like chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp hearts for an extra nutritional boost

By making these adjustments, you can transform these granola bars into a more well-rounded and nourishing snack that still satisfies your sweet tooth.

Editor's Opinion on This No-Bake Granola Bar Recipe

This no-bake peanut butter and chocolate chip granola bars recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of quick cooking oats and rice krispies cereal provides a satisfying crunch, while the peanut butter and chocolate chips add a rich and indulgent touch. The addition of coconut oil and honey brings a subtle sweetness, and the bars hold together perfectly. It's a convenient and delicious snack or dessert option that's sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Enhance Your No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the granola bars with a side of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. The sweetness of the bars will be a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the vegetables.

Grilled Chicken: Pair the granola bars with some juicy grilled chicken for a satisfying and balanced meal. The protein from the chicken will complement the oats and peanut butter in the bars.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad would make a perfect accompaniment to the granola bars. The combination of fresh fruits will add a burst of natural sweetness to the dessert, making it a delightful ending to any meal.

Similar No-Bake Recipes to Try

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy texture makes this soup a favorite for all ages.

Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken: This grilled lemon garlic chicken recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare chicken. The marinade of lemon, garlic, and herbs infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it juicy and tender on the grill.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and healthy dessert option. The combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds makes for a satisfying and guilt-free treat.

Appetizers and Main Dishes That Complement No-Bake Granola Bars

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a perfect appetizer.

Bruschetta: Slices of toasted baguette are topped with a flavorful mixture of tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic vinegar, creating a refreshing and satisfying appetizer.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich alfredo sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked fettuccine. This classic Italian favorite is sure to satisfy your cravings for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of a beef stir fry, featuring tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why trust this No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars Recipe:

This recipe is a delicious and nutritious choice for a quick and easy snack. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate chips provides a satisfying and indulgent flavor, while the use of coconut oil and honey offers natural sweetness and a boost of energy. The addition of quick cooking oats and rice krispies cereal ensures a satisfying crunch and a wholesome base. With the convenience of being a no-bake recipe, it's a hassle-free option for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings. Plus, the mini chocolate chips add a delightful touch of sweetness to every bite.

Want to share your experience making these delicious No-Bake Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Granola Bars? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how they turned out!

FAQ:

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick cooking oats?

Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats instead of quick cooking oats. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work well in the recipe.

Can I substitute the rice krispies cereal with something else?

Absolutely! You can substitute the rice krispies cereal with an equal amount of crushed pretzels, chopped nuts, or even more oats for a different texture.

How long do I need to let the bars set before cutting them?

I recommend letting the bars set for at least 2-3 hours, or until they are firm enough to hold their shape when cut.

Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of honey and brown sugar?

Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or any other liquid sweetener of your choice as a substitute for honey and brown sugar.

Can I add other mix-ins to the granola bars?

Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding dried fruits, chopped nuts, or seeds to the mixture before pressing it into the pan.