Description
When mornings get hectic, having a wholesome breakfast that’s ready to go makes life so much easier. These Easy Grab-and-Go Oatmeal Bars are chewy, slightly sweet, and packed with oats, nut butter, and natural ingredients that keep you full and energized. Perfect for busy mornings, lunchbox treats, or afternoon snacks, they’re a simple, nutritious option you can make ahead and enjoy all week.
Ingredients
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2 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
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1 cup creamy peanut butter or almond butter
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½ cup honey or pure maple syrup
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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⅓ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
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⅓ cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Optional mix-ins: shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or seeds (chia, flax, sunflower)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
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In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Add oats, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Stir until fully combined. The mixture will be thick.
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Fold in optional mix-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts.
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Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Press it firmly into the corners using a spatula.
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
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Let bars cool completely in the pan. Use parchment paper to lift them out, then slice into bars or squares.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For long-term storage, freeze up to 2 months.
Notes
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For softer bars, slightly underbake them; for firmer bars, bake 2–3 minutes longer.
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Warm the peanut butter and honey before mixing to help blend smoothly.
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For a nut-free version, use sunflower seed butter instead.
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These bars can be customized easily—try adding coconut, banana, or apple pieces.
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To freeze, wrap each bar individually and thaw before serving for an easy on-the-go breakfast or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes