🥜 No-Bake Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Bars

These chewy, kid-approved bars are packed with fiber, healthy fats, and just the right amount of sweetness—perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or lunchbox snack!

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:

1. In a medium bowl, mix together peanut butter, honey, and vanilla until smooth.

2. Add in oats, flaxseed, salt, and any optional add-ins. Stir until well combined.

3. Fold in chocolate chips.

4. Press the mixture firmly into an 8x8-inch pan lined with parchment paper.

5. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing into bars.

6. 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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Blend into Smoothies: Add ¼ cup of oats to your smoothie for extra fiber and thickness without altering the flavor much.

4. Bake with Oats: Use oats in muffins, granola bars, cookies, or breads for a wholesome twist.

5. Use as a Breadcrumb Swap: Replace breadcrumbs with oats in recipes like meatballs or meatloaf for a fiber-rich alternative.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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