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Homemade Granola Bars with Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate

Homemade Granola Bars with Peanut Butter and Dark Chocolate

These homemade granola bars with peanut butter and dark chocolate are chewy, rich, and naturally sweetened, combining hearty oats, creamy peanut butter, and chunks of dark chocolate into a wholesome, no-bake snack perfect for breakfast, meal prep, or a healthy dessert.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast
Calories: 230
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • ½ cup honey or maple syrup
  • ¾ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate 60–70% cocoa
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Optional Add-ins:
  • ½ cup chopped nuts almonds, walnuts, or cashews
  • ½ cup dried fruits cranberries, raisins, or dates
  • 2 –3 tablespoons seeds chia, flax, or sunflower seeds

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Square baking pan (8x8 or similar)
  • Parchment paper
  • Knife for slicing

Method
 

Prepare the pan:
  1. Line a square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
Toast the oats:
  1. In a dry pan over medium heat, toast oats for 4–5 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside.
Heat the wet ingredients:
  1. In a saucepan over low heat, combine peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Stir until smooth and melted. Remove from heat and add vanilla extract and salt.
Combine ingredients:
  1. In a large bowl, mix toasted oats with optional add-ins. Pour in the peanut butter mixture and stir until evenly coated.
Add chocolate:
  1. Let the mixture cool slightly, then fold in the dark chocolate.
Press into pan:
  1. Transfer mixture into prepared pan and press down firmly and evenly.
Chill:
  1. Refrigerate for 2–3 hours or until firm.
Slice and serve:
  1. Lift from pan and cut into bars or squares.

Notes

Press the mixture firmly to prevent crumbly bars.
Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
Allow mixture to cool slightly before adding chocolate to avoid melting.
Store in the refrigerator for best texture and freshness.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months for long-term storage.