Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate bite that’s chewy, nutty, and chocolatey all at once, look no further than these Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars. Combining rich, creamy peanut butter with crunchy granola and melty mini chocolate chips, these bars are that rare treat: outrageously delicious, so simple to make, and surprisingly satisfying. Perfect as a lunchbox hero, afternoon pick-me-up, or even a not-so-guilty dessert, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars lies in the beautiful simplicity of the ingredients. Each one plays an important role, from giving the bars structure and softness to providing just the right touch of sweetness and crunch.

• Creamy Peanut Butter: Acts as the deliciously nutty base that binds everything together and delivers incredible flavor.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweetens naturally while helping the bars stay moist and chewy.
• Unsalted Butter (melted): Adds richness and tenderness, preventing the bars from being dry.
• Large Egg: Binds the mixture, giving structure and a slightly cakey bite.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds that warm, inviting aroma and helps round out the flavors.
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Provide substance and a bit of chew, making the bars hearty.
• Granola (any variety): Infuses extra crunch and can be customized for even more flavor or texture—think nutty, fruity, or chocolatey blends.
• Baking Soda: Gives the bars just a touch of lift so they aren’t too dense.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and keeps sweetness in check.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: Ensures that every bite has a glossy, sweet pop of chocolate.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with butter or nonstick spray. This step not only makes cleanup a breeze but also guarantees that your bars lift out easily without sticking or crumbling.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the creamy peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and completely blended. This ensures that the wet ingredients thoroughly coat your dry ingredients later, resulting in even texture and flavor.

Step 3: Stir in the Dry Ingredients

To your wet mixture, add the rolled oats, granola, baking soda, and salt. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold everything together just until it’s combined; don’t overmix! You want every bite of the Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars to have a little bit of everything—oats, crunchy granola clusters, and all that peanut-buttery goodness.

Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Now for the best part: gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This ensures a generous spread of chocolate throughout, so every slice gets its share of melty, gooey chocolate once baked.

Step 5: Transfer and Bake

Pour the dough into your prepared pan and use your hands or the back of a spatula to press it down evenly. This is key for perfect, uniform bars that bake up just right. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and the center is just set. Resist the urge to overbake—the bars will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely right in the pan. This lets them set up beautifully, making slicing so much easier (and tidier!). Once cool, lift them out and cut into 12 generous squares or rectangles—whatever shape your snack-loving heart desires.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars

Garnishes

While these bars are delicious all on their own, you can always sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top for that sweet-and-salty magic, or drizzle them with extra melted chocolate for a show-stopping finish. A scattering of chopped roasted peanuts adds extra crunch if you’re feeling fancy!

Side Dishes

Enjoy one of these Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars alongside a cold glass of almond milk, a warm cup of coffee, or even a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt for a wholesome breakfast or snack. They also pair beautifully with fresh berries for a bright contrast to their rich sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party or a special treat, wrap individual bars in parchment or wax paper and tie with twine for rustic charm. Layer them in a jar for a homemade gift, or cut into smaller bites and stack them on a platter for a snack board centerpiece that everyone will adore. With their golden color and speckled chocolate chips, they look irresistible no matter how you serve them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These bars stay fresh and tasty for up to five days when stored at room temperature in an airtight container. To keep them chewy, place a piece of wax paper or parchment between layers so they don’t stick together. They’re perfect for busy weeknights and grab-and-go snacks alike.

Freezing

To make Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars ahead of time for future cravings, cut them into bars, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe zip bag or airtight container. They keep beautifully for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature when you need a sweet fix.

Reheating

If you prefer your bars a little warm and gooey, pop a single bar in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This brings out the gooey chocolate chips and softens the peanut butter, making each bite as fresh and decadent as the day you baked them.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and those irresistible little peanut pieces. Just know your bars may be a bit denser, but they’ll still be delicious.

What’s the best kind of granola to use?

You can use any granola you love—classic oat, nut-filled, or even chocolate varieties work perfectly here. The granola’s unique flavors and textures will make your bars uniquely yours each time.

Are these bars gluten-free?

They can be! Simply use certified gluten-free oats and granola, and you’ll have a gluten-free version of Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars with all the flavor and fun.

Can I add mix-ins like dried fruit or coconut?

Go for it! Chopped nuts, sliced dried fruit, or a handful of shredded coconut are excellent additions. Just keep the total volume of mix-ins reasonable so the bars hold together well.

How do I keep the bars from crumbling when slicing?

Be patient and let the bars cool completely in the pan. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between slices for the neatest bars. If you added a lot of mix-ins, pressing the bars firmly before baking also helps them hold together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Every batch of Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Granola Cookie Bars feels like a little celebration, whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself. I can’t wait for you to try these—once you do, they’re sure to earn a spot in your regular treat rotation!

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