Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Instructions

1. 1

   Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of oats, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and set aside.

3. 3

   In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter and 1/2 cup of honey. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.

4. 4

   Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the peanut butter and honey mixture.

5. 5

   Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oats and mix well until all the oats are coated.

6. 6

   Transfer half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish, pressing down firmly to form an even layer.

7. 7

   Sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips evenly over the oat layer in the baking dish.

8. 8

   Cover the chocolate chips with the remaining oat mixture, pressing down firmly.

9. 9

   Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to set.

10. 10

    Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the overhanging parchment paper and cut into squares or bars.

11. 11

    Store the oat bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.