I’ve had a few requests for a version of my Chocolate Chip Granola Bars with a smidge more protein, and since peanut butter granola bars are a favorite among many, this is a perfect option. With easy-to-find ingredients, a super simple method, and seriously yummy flavor, this healthy snack to make is filling and nutritious. You also don’t need to worry about the bars losing their shape at room temperature since they hold up so well. Which means they can be a great after-school snack or preschool snack. And you can also serve them as part of a healthy breakfast for kids, a toddler lunch idea, or a lunchbox idea for kids in elementary school. (You may also like Homemade Granola Bars, Strawberry Oatmeal Bars, Fig Bars, and Banana Oatmeal Bars.)
Ingredients You Need
Here’s a look at the ingredients you need to have on hand to make Peanut Butter Granola Bars so you know what to pick up from the store or have ready. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.
Rolled oats: I use regular rolled oats in this recipe. They are sometimes called “old-fashioned oats.” You can also use gluten-free rolled oats if needed to make this granola bar recipe gluten-free. Flour: A little flour helps the batter hold together nicely, and it helps the bars be soft and easy to chew. Brown sugar: I add brown sugar to aid in the texture and sweetness. Chia seeds: Chia seeds add nutrition to the batter and help it bind together (without eggs). Banana: A ripe banana adds to the natural sweetness of the bars, but it doesn’t make them taste overtly banana, promise! Peanut butter: I use creamy unsweetened peanut butter in this recipe. It easily stirs in with the rest of the ingredients and has pure peanut flavor. Honey: Honey adds sweetness and also contributes to the batter baking up and holding the bar shape easily. Mini chocolate chips: I prefer to use mini chocolate chips here to make the chocolate chip granola bars resemble store bought bars. You can use full size chocolate chips, though you may want to chop them up.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a preview of how to make these Peanut Butter Granola Bars so you know what to expect from the process. Scroll down to the end of this post for the full information, including the amounts and the timing. TIP: Pressing the batter down very firmly into the pan, and letting the bars cool fully in the pan, helps ensure that the bars hold together well.
How to Store
Store granola bars in an airtight container or storage bag for up to 2 weeks. I prefer to store them in the fridge. You can wrap each bar in plastic wrap if desired.
Best Tips for Success
Use raisins in place of the chocolate chips. Use an all-purpose gluten-free flour blend in place of the whole wheat flour. Note about the sugar: I made this recipe over and over looking to get the right texture and flavor, and I tried using less sugar—they were too bland. If you want to lower the honey slightly to ⅓ cup, you are welcome to do that. The amounts in this recipe are the ones I settled on as leading to the best results. I use unsweetened creamy natural-style peanut butter in this recipe.
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