🥜 No-Bake Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Bars
- Jayme Limbaugh MS, RD, LDN, CSCS, CEP, CPT, CCES
- Aug 1
- 2 min read

Ingredients:
1½ cups rolled oats
½ cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
¼ cup ground flaxseed
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips
Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins (choose 1–2):
2 Tbsp chia seeds
¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
¼ cup dried fruit (raisins, cranberries)
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, mix together peanut butter, honey, and vanilla until smooth.
Add in oats, flaxseed, salt, and any optional add-ins. Stir until well combined.
Fold in chocolate chips.
Press the mixture firmly into an 8x8-inch pan lined with parchment paper.
Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week (or freeze for up to 1 month).
Why Parents Love It:
These bars are customizable, made with wholesome ingredients, and free from added preservatives—plus they hold up well in lunchboxes!
🌾 Why Include Oats in Your Diet?
Oats are a simple, wholesome grain packed with powerful nutrition. Whether enjoyed as oatmeal, overnight oats, or baked into snacks, oats are a great way to start the day strong. They're affordable, easy to prepare, and offer lasting energy for both kids and adults.
Benefits of Oats:
Heart Health – Rich in beta-glucan fiber, which helps lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol.
Weight Management – Keeps you fuller longer, helping reduce mindless snacking.
Sustained Energy – Provides complex carbs for steady, long-lasting fuel.
Digestive Support – High in fiber to promote regularity and gut health.
Nutrient-Rich – Contains important vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins.
Budget-Friendly & Versatile – An affordable pantry staple that works in sweet or savory dishes.
Easy Tips for Eating More Oats:
Start Your Day with Oatmeal: Cook a warm bowl of oats and top with fruit, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of honey or nut butter for a satisfying breakfast.
Make Overnight Oats: Mix oats with milk or yogurt, fruit, and chia seeds, then refrigerate overnight for a ready-to-eat breakfast in the morning.
Blend into Smoothies: Add ¼ cup of oats to your smoothie for extra fiber and thickness without altering the flavor much.
Bake with Oats: Use oats in muffins, granola bars, cookies, or breads for a wholesome twist.
Use as a Breadcrumb Swap: Replace breadcrumbs with oats in recipes like meatballs or meatloaf for a fiber-rich alternative.
Create Savory Oats: Try cooking oats with low-sodium broth instead of water, and top with sautéed veggies, an egg, and a sprinkle of cheese for a savory meal.
DIY Granola: Mix oats with nuts, seeds, spices, and a touch of maple syrup or honey, then bake for homemade granola—perfect for yogurt parfaits or snacking.
Make Oat Pancakes or Waffles: Blend oats into your pancake or waffle batter for added texture and nutrition.
Yours in health,
The Crystal Coast Wellness and Performance Family
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