Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly balanced bar that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter, the sweet warmth of maple syrup, and the delightful crunch of pecans – all wrapped up in a wholesome oatmeal base. These Maple Peanut Butter Pecan Oatmeal Bars are not just a snack; they're a moment of pure culinary bliss that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds)! Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a guilt-free dessert, these bars are about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Snack
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter and maple syrup together for 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined, creating a glossy liquid mixture.
- Pour the warm peanut butter and maple syrup mixture over the dry oat ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until all ingredients are completely incorporated and the oats are evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing down firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Use rolled oats for the best texture – quick oats can make the bars too mushy, while steel-cut oats might be too tough.
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes before chopping them. This will enhance their nutty flavor and add depth to the bars.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan to create compact bars that hold together well when cut.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they set properly and don't crumble.
- For a variation, try adding a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top after baking for an extra indulgent touch.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness, and they'll stay delicious for up to 5 days at room temperature.
- For a protein boost, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the dry ingredients without significantly changing the recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
