Healthy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

Imagine a warm, comforting hug wrapped in a delicious, chewy bar. Healthy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars are not just a tasty treat; they’re a smart choice for a nutritious snack. With simple ingredients and low added sugar, these bars can fit into your daily routine easily. Curious about how to whip up this wholesome delight? Let’s explore the recipe and tips to make these bars perfect for your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try these Healthy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars, you’ll quickly see why they’re a favorite. First, they’re low in added sugar, making them a healthier choice compared to traditional cookies.

If you opt for certified gluten-free oats, you can enjoy them without worrying about gluten. These bars are macro-balanced, so they help maintain your blood sugar levels. Additionally, they are freezer-friendly, making it easy to store extras for later.

You’ll love how easy they’re to prepare, needing just one bowl and minimal ingredients. The flavor is delightful, with a rich blend of peanut butter and chocolate, and they’ve a soft, chewy texture.

Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, allowing you to store extras for later. With dietary flexibility, they’re perfect for everyone!

History

Peanut butter cookies have a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s, showcasing their evolution from simple ingredients to beloved treats.

In 1890, peanut butter was marketed as a health benefit, especially for those with bad teeth. By 1904, it made its debut at the St. Louis World’s Fair, boosting its popularity.

Peanut butter cookies emerged in the early 1900s, becoming particularly popular during the Great Depression due to their affordability and nutritional benefits. Initially, these cookies were made with ground peanuts rather than peanut butter. The concept of peanut butter can be traced back to ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Incas.

George Washington Carver played a significant role in promoting peanuts, contributing to the rise of peanut butter cookies as a staple in American culinary tradition, symbolizing nostalgia and comfort.

Recipe

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Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
– 1 cup (250g) chunky or creamy peanut butter
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup (127g) whole wheat flour
– 1 cup (85g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Milk (as needed)
– 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and peanut butter. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to mix them together until the mixture is light in color and fluffy.
Gradually add the whole wheat flour, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt to the peanut butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
Slowly add milk, a little at a time, until a dough forms. The amount of milk needed may vary, so add just enough to achieve the right consistency.
Fold in chocolate chips and raisins if desired, then press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 17-20 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden and set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for a few minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider sprinkling a little sea salt on top before baking or reserving some chocolate chips to sprinkle after baking for a decorative touch. These bars can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks for a refreshing snack option.

If you prefer a denser bar, you can modify the recipe by increasing the amount of oats and flour.

Always remember to adjust the baking time if you decide to use a different pan size, as it may require a longer or shorter baking duration.

Enjoy your homemade healthy treats!

Final Thoughts

While making these healthy peanut butter oatmeal cookie bars, you’ll find that the process isn’t only simple but also rewarding. You can control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier snack that suits your dietary needs. By using natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup and wholesome ingredients such as rolled oats, you’re avoiding many processed components found in store-bought bars. Plus, you can customize the recipe with nuts or dried fruit, making it your own. After baking, remember to let them cool and store them properly in an airtight container. These bars can last for several days or even months if frozen, providing a convenient and nutritious option whenever you need a quick snack. The recipe yields 16 bars, making it a great choice for families or meal prepping.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

FAQ

What questions might you have about making these healthy peanut butter oatmeal cookie bars? You might wonder about ingredient substitutions. For a gluten-free version, try almond flour instead of regular flour. If you’re dairy-free, use dairy-free chocolate chips.

You may also ask about the baking process. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Make sure to mix wet ingredients like peanut butter and eggs thoroughly before adding dry ingredients. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter is highly favored, so feel free to include additional chips for an extra treat!

After baking for 20-25 minutes, let the bars cool completely to avoid crumbling. Store any leftovers in airtight containers, refrigerating them for up to two weeks or freezing for longer storage. Enjoy customizing with your favorite mix-ins!