Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars are the perfect mashup of a chewy cookie, hearty granola bar, and indulgent dessert. Packed with oats, peanut butter, and gooey chocolate chips, these bars offer satisfying crunch and chew in every bite. They’re ideal for breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or a sweet treat after dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, yet they taste like a dessert. The peanut butter adds richness, the oats bring texture and fiber, and the chocolate chips provide the perfect sweet finish. They’re naturally filling, highly portable, and customizable to suit your taste—plus, they store well, making them great for meal prep or lunchbox snacks.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Old-fashioned rolled oats
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Creamy peanut butter
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Mini or regular chocolate chips
• Optional: chopped peanuts, flaxseed, or shredded coconut

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
2. In a bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat together butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
4. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in chocolate chips (and any optional add-ins).
7. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan and press down lightly to flatten.
8. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
9. Cool completely before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 16–20 bars

Variations

• Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter if needed.
• Add-ins: Mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped pretzels for extra flavor and texture.
• Vegan version: Use dairy-free butter, a flax egg, and vegan chocolate chips.
• No-bake version: Use quick oats and honey as a base, then press into a pan and chill to set.
• Extra protein: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry mix.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

To freeze, wrap individual bars in parchment and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats provide more chew and structure.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, just make sure it’s well-stirred and not too runny for best results.

Are these bars crunchy or chewy?

They’re chewy with a slight crisp on the edges. For crunchier bars, bake a few extra minutes.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

What’s the best way to cut clean bars?

Let them cool completely, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, reduce by up to 1/3 without significantly affecting texture. You can also substitute with coconut sugar.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling required—just mix, press, and bake.

Can I make this into cookies instead?

Yes, scoop dough into balls and bake as cookies at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.

What size pan works best?

A 9×13-inch pan is ideal, but you can use an 8×8 for thicker bars (adjust baking time accordingly).

Are these good for kids?

Absolutely! They’re sweet, nutritious, and easy to eat with your hands—perfect for lunchboxes and snacks.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars are the ultimate all-in-one treat: chewy, crunchy, sweet, and satisfying. With a simple prep and wholesome ingredients, these bars are perfect for snacking, sharing, or indulging in a guilt-free dessert. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or straight from the freezer, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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