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Peanut Butter Cup Granola Bars Recipe

4.6 from 114 reviews

These Peanut Butter Cup Granola Bars are a delicious and satisfying snack featuring a crunchy oat base mixed with coconut flakes, peanuts, and creamy peanut butter. Sweetened with honey and molasses, this no-bake recipe is topped with mini peanut butter cups and optionally drizzled with melted chocolate and peanut butter for an indulgent treat. Perfect for a quick breakfast or an on-the-go snack, these bars are easy to prepare and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups old fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup natural, creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup pure honey
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsulphured molasses
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings & Garnish

  • 1/4 cup mini peanut butter cups
  • 3 tablespoons melted chocolate (for drizzling)
  • 3 tablespoons melted natural, creamy peanut butter (for drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides to help lift the bars out later. Set the pan aside.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, unsweetened coconut flakes, chopped roasted peanuts, and kosher salt. Set this oat mixture aside.
  3. Heat Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the creamy peanut butter, honey, coconut oil, molasses, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently to blend the ingredients and warm the mixture gently for about 2-3 minutes without boiling.
  4. Combine Mixtures: Remove the peanut butter mixture from heat and immediately pour it into the bowl with the oat mixture. Use a rubber spatula to stir firmly until the oats and nuts are well coated and the mixture is evenly combined.
  5. Press Mixture Into Pan: Transfer the granola mixture into the prepared pan. Firmly press it down using the bottom of a glass or your hands to ensure it holds together tightly.
  6. Add Peanut Butter Cups: Allow the pressed mixture to cool for a few minutes, then evenly press mini peanut butter cups into the top of the granola layer.
  7. Chill the Bars: Cover the pan with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for 1 hour to harden. Alternatively, refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set.
  8. Cut Into Bars: Once firm, lift the granola slab out of the pan using the parchment paper edges. Use a sharp knife to cut the slab into 8 bars.
  9. Drizzle (Optional): Immediately drizzle the bars with melted chocolate followed by melted peanut butter for an extra layer of flavor. The drizzle will set quickly since the bars are cold.
  10. Store and Serve: Enjoy the bars right away, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep fresh for up to 1 week.

Notes

  • Use old fashioned rolled oats rather than instant oats for better texture.
  • Make sure to press the mixture firmly in the pan to help the bars hold together.
  • Mini peanut butter cups add sweetness and texture but can be omitted or substituted if preferred.
  • Bars can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain firmness.
  • Drizzling with chocolate and peanut butter is optional, but adds great flavor and presentation.

Keywords: peanut butter granola bars, no bake granola bars, peanut butter snack, granola bars with chocolate, healthy homemade granola bars