Let me tell you, these 5 ingredient peanut butter granola bars are a total game changer! I whip them up whenever I need a quick snack or when I’m running low on time but craving something delicious. Seriously, it’s just five simple ingredients that come together to create the most satisfying treat. The warm, nutty aroma fills my kitchen, and I can’t help but sneak a taste before they’re even baked! They’re perfect for those busy days when you need something nutritious to grab on the go. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite add-ins! Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for 5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your own batch of these delicious bars:
- 2 cups rolled oats: Make sure you grab the old-fashioned kind for that perfect chewy texture.
- 1 cup peanut butter: Go for creamy or crunchy—totally your call! Just make sure it’s the natural kind without added sugars.
- 1/3 cup honey: This will add a lovely sweetness and help bind everything together. If you’re feeling adventurous, try maple syrup for a vegan twist!
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips: Semi-sweet or dark, whatever floats your boat! These add a little indulgence to your bars.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts: I love using almonds or walnuts, but feel free to mix it up with your favorites!
That’s it! Simple, right? You’ll find that these ingredients meld together beautifully to create a wholesome, tasty snack that’s sure to satisfy any craving.
How to Prepare 5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Making these granola bars is as simple as it gets! Trust me, you’ll have them ready in no time. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll be munching on delicious homemade snacks in about half an hour!
Preheat the Oven
First things first—let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While that’s warming up, you can get your mixing done!
Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, and honey. I like to use a sturdy spatula or even my hands to mix them together until everything is well combined. You want it to be thick and sticky, so don’t hold back! This is where all that nutty goodness comes to life.
Add Mix-Ins
Once your base is ready, it’s time to add in the fun stuff! Toss in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts, stirring gently so they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This is your chance to get creative! If you’ve got any favorite add-ins like dried fruits or seeds, feel free to throw those in too.
Press and Bake
Now, grab a baking dish and line it with parchment paper—it makes removing the bars later a breeze! Transfer your mixture into the dish and press it down firmly to create an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until you see that beautiful golden brown color forming on top. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly!
Cool and Cut
Once baked, let the dish cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes. This step helps them firm up a bit more. After cooling, carefully lift them out using the parchment paper and cut them into bars. Voilà! You’ve got yourself a batch of scrumptious peanut butter granola bars ready to enjoy!
Tips for Success with 5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Alright, let’s make sure your granola bars turn out amazing! First off, when measuring your peanut butter, it helps to warm it slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This makes it easier to mix and ensures a smoother consistency in your bars. Also, don’t skip the parchment paper—trust me, it’ll make your life so much easier when it’s time to cut those bars! If you want your bars a bit chewier, bake them for the shorter time, and for a firmer texture, go a little longer. Lastly, let them cool completely before cutting; this helps them hold their shape better. Enjoy the process, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite add-ins!
Nutritional Information
These 5 ingredient peanut butter granola bars are not just delicious, but they’re also packed with good-for-you nutrients! Each bar contains approximately 180 calories, with 8g of fat and 5g of protein to keep you energized throughout your day. You’ll also get about 25g of carbohydrates and 3g of fiber, making these a satisfying snack option. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, like the type of peanut butter or the nuts used. Feel free to customize for your dietary needs while enjoying every bite!
FAQ about 5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars
Got questions about these 5 ingredient peanut butter granola bars? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my go-to answers to help you out.
Can I Substitute Honey?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegan option, maple syrup works wonderfully as a substitute for honey. It’ll give your bars that lovely sweetness while keeping everything plant-based. Just make sure to use the same amount as the honey called for in the recipe!
How Should I Store These Bars?
To keep your granola bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay good for about two weeks that way! Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you stack them to prevent sticking.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to get creative. You can add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet twist, or toss in some seeds like chia or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition. Just remember to keep an eye on the overall quantity so your bars hold together nicely!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only five simple ingredients make these bars incredibly easy to whip up!
- They’re packed with wholesome oats and protein-rich peanut butter for a nutritious snack.
- Perfect for busy lifestyles—great for on-the-go snacking or a quick breakfast.
- Customizable with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits.
- Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, keeping things healthy and guilt-free.
- They store well, making them a convenient option to have on hand for cravings.
Serving Suggestions for 5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars
These 5 ingredient peanut butter granola bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many delightful ways! For a quick breakfast, pair a bar with a smoothie or a cup of yogurt topped with fresh fruit. If you’re looking for a mid-afternoon snack, try them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee—the rich peanut butter flavor complements the warmth perfectly!
Feeling a bit more indulgent? Crumble a bar over ice cream for a crunchy topping, or spread a little extra peanut butter on top for an extra protein boost. You can also pack them in your lunchbox with some sliced apples or carrots for a balanced meal. The possibilities are endless, so have fun mixing and matching!
Print
5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola Bars You’ll Adore
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for peanut butter granola bars made with just five ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together oats, peanut butter, and honey.
- Add chocolate chips and chopped nuts to the mixture.
- Press the mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Feel free to add dried fruits for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: 5 ingredient peanut butter granola bars