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Easy Gluten-Free No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Bars

gluten-free no-bake peanut butter oat bars - featured image

Quick and simple no-bake bars made with gluten-free oats, creamy peanut butter, honey, and dark chocolate. Perfect for a healthy, satisfying snack on the go.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180 g) old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free certified)
  • 1 cup (250 g) natural creamy peanut butter
  • ⅓ cup (113 g) honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp sea salt
  • ½ cup (90 g) dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher)
  • ¼ cup (30 g) chopped nuts (optional, toasted almonds or walnuts)
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. (5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Stir until smooth and well blended. (3-4 minutes)
  3. Add rolled oats, optional chia or flaxseeds, and chopped nuts if using. Mix gently but thoroughly until every oat is coated. If mixture feels dry, add a teaspoon of water or more honey. (3-5 minutes)
  4. Transfer mixture to the lined pan and press down firmly and evenly to create a compact 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick layer. (3 minutes)
  5. Melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring between, or use a double boiler on low heat. (3-4 minutes)
  6. Drizzle melted chocolate over the pressed oat mixture and spread gently if desired. (2 minutes)
  7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm. (2+ hours)
  8. Lift bars out using parchment overhang and cut into 10-12 bars. Store extras in an airtight container in the fridge. (5 minutes)

Notes

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture; avoid quick or steel-cut oats. Press mixture firmly into pan and do not skip chilling step to prevent crumbling. Melt chocolate slowly to avoid burning; adding 1 tsp coconut oil can improve smoothness. Store bars refrigerated for up to one week or freeze individually for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: gluten-free, no-bake, peanut butter, oat bars, healthy snacks, dark chocolate, quick snack, vegan option