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Looking for a quick and tasty snack? You’ve come to the right place! My Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bars are simple to make and perfect for any time you need a boost. Packed with flavor and nutrients, these bars are great for kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this easy recipe, and soon you will have a delicious treat ready to fuel your day!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it a perfect choice for a last-minute snack or meal prep.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with rolled oats, flaxseed, and peanut butter, these bars provide a great source of energy and nutrients.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the sweetener or chocolate type, making these bars adaptable to your taste preferences.
- Perfect for On-the-Go: These energy bars are great for taking on hikes, to the gym, or as a quick breakfast option!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of sea salt
Measurements and Substitutions
You can adjust measurements to fit your tastes. If you want a sweeter bar, add more honey or syrup. For a nut-free option, use sun butter instead of peanut butter. Feel free to swap chocolate chips for dried fruit, nuts, or seeds. Adjust the amount of flaxseed if you want a different texture.
Nutritional Information Overview
Each bar packs a punch of energy. They offer healthy fats from peanut butter and fiber from oats and flaxseed. With chocolate chips, they bring a sweet treat without refined sugar. Each bar has about 150 calories, making it a perfect snack.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, gather all your ingredients. You will need:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of sea salt
In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and sea salt. Use a wooden spoon or spatula. Stir until they blend well. This mix is the base for your bars.
Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients
Now, take another bowl. Combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Whisk this mixture until it is smooth and creamy. This step is key. The creamy texture helps bind the bars together.
Next, pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Make sure all oats and flaxseed get coated. Stir with a spatula until you form a thick, sticky dough. After that, gently fold in the chocolate chips. Make sure they spread evenly without breaking.
Setting and Cutting the Bars
Grab an 8×8-inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides. This helps with easy removal later. Transfer your mixture into the dish. Press it down firmly. Use a measuring cup or your hands for an even surface.
Now, place the dish in the refrigerator. Let it set for at least 1 hour. This helps the bars hold their shape. After an hour, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and slice it into bars or squares.
Store your energy bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. Place them in a single layer, then move to a freezer-safe container. Enjoy your homemade bars!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Perfect Texture
To get the best texture in your energy bars, follow these steps:
– Use rolled oats. They provide the right chewiness.
– Mix the wet and dry ingredients well. This helps bind them together.
– Press the mixture firmly into the pan. A tight pack helps the bars hold shape.
If your bars are too crumbly, add a bit more peanut butter or honey. This will make them stick better.
Recommendations for Sweeteners
You can choose between honey and maple syrup. Both work well in this recipe.
– Honey gives a nice sweetness and chewy texture.
– Maple syrup adds a unique flavor.
If you want a lower-sugar option, try using ripe mashed bananas. This adds natural sweetness without extra sugar.
Flavor Enhancements and Add-ins
Want to make your energy bars even more delicious? Here are some ideas:
– Add nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch.
– Toss in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for a chewy bite.
– Try spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Experiment with these add-ins to create your perfect flavor!
Pro Tips
- Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: They provide a great texture and hold up well in energy bars, making them chewy and satisfying.
- Experiment with Nut Butters: While peanut butter is delicious, try almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile!
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup according to your taste preference; you can always start with less and add more.
- Store Properly: For maximum freshness, wrap each bar individually in parchment paper before storing in an airtight container.

Variations
Alternative Nut Butters
You can swap peanut butter for other nut butters. Almond butter or cashew butter work well. You can even try sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Each nut butter brings its own flavor to the bars.
Unique Flavor Combinations
Think outside the box when adding flavors. Try mixing in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. Coconut flakes add a fun texture. You can also use spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Experiment to find your favorite mix!
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
To make these bars gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup. This keeps the bars sweet and plant-based. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Storage Info
How to Store the Energy Bars
To keep your energy bars fresh, place them in an airtight container. Store the bars in the refrigerator. This method helps them stay firm and tasty. If you want to enjoy them later, follow the freezing tips below.
Freezing and Thawing Instructions
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. First, lay the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about two hours. Once frozen, transfer the bars to a freezer-safe container. You can stack them, but place parchment paper between layers. To thaw, take out the number of bars you need and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Shelf Life and Freshness Tips
These energy bars stay fresh for about one week in the fridge. If you freeze them, they can last for up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If they smell off or look strange, it is best to throw them out. Enjoy your tasty snack!
FAQs
Can I use other sweeteners instead of honey?
Yes, you can use maple syrup instead of honey. Both sweeteners work well. Maple syrup adds a nice flavor. You could also try agave nectar for a different taste.
How long do these energy bars last?
These energy bars last up to a week in the fridge. Keep them in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months.
Are these energy bars suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These bars are great for kids. They have healthy ingredients like oats and peanut butter. Plus, kids love the taste of chocolate chips. They make a perfect snack for school or playtime.
Can I add protein powder to the recipe?
Yes, you can add protein powder. It boosts the nutrition in these bars. Start with 1/4 cup of protein powder. Mix it with the dry ingredients for even distribution.
What can I substitute for oats if I’m gluten-free?
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free oats. You can also use ground almonds or quinoa flakes. These swaps keep the texture and flavor delicious while being gluten-free.
You now have a complete guide to making energy bars. We covered the key ingredients, detailed steps, and helpful tips. You also learned about variations to fit your taste and dietary needs. Storing your bars properly will keep them fresh longer.
Remember, feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Enjoy your energy bars that are not only tasty but also packed with goodness. You can customize them to fit your lifestyle. Happy snackin
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Energy Bars
Delicious and nutritious energy bars made with peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch sea salt
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground flaxseed, and a pinch of sea salt. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir them together until well blended.
In another mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and pure vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Carefully pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, ensuring all oats and flaxseed are well coated. Stir with a spatula until fully combined, forming a thick, sticky dough.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture without breaking them.
Prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Transfer the mixture into the lined baking dish and press it firmly into the bottom. Use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to ensure the mixture is tightly packed and even.
Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and allow the mixture to set for at least 1 hour. This will help the bars hold their shape.
Once firm, lift the mixture out of the baking dish using the parchment overhang. Place it on a cutting board and slice into bars or squares of your desired size.
Store the energy bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Keyword chocolate, energy bars, peanut butter, snack
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