No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars

• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular)
• 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or walnuts
• Optional: 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds

Instructions

1. Line an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, salt, and optional nuts or seeds if using. Stir well.
3. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth and combined, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the oats and stir thoroughly until all oats are coated evenly.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly using the back of a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
6. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
7. Pour the melted chocolate over the oat layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
8. Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour or until firm before cutting into 12 bars. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Chef tips

• Use natural peanut butter without added sugar for a less sweet, more wholesome bar.
• If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit optional nuts.
• To make these bars vegan, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
• For softer bars, let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before eating if straight from the fridge.