Pull out the protein powder and whip up a quick, nourishing gluten-free snack. These Peanut Butter and Chia Chewy Bars are the best darned thing you've ever eaten. Made in 10 minutes or less, only one pot required and no baking. A favorite afterschool snack our family thinks your family will love.
Growing up as a kid in Utah, we'd count down the days on the school cafeteria calendar until Peanut Butter Bars were to be served. Lovingly called Lunch Lady Bars, these peanut butter cookies topped with a creamy chocolate frosting were an all-time favorite then and now.
Except that now, I'm trying to eat g-free far more often than not. Which means PB cookies are out. And sugary buttercream isn't much of an approved "high energy, whole food, healthy snack."
So I decided to turn the classic into a better-for-you version. Quicker, too.
With one pot tossed on the stove, and about 10 minutes of prep, this recipe will get you a pan of deliciously chewy peanut butter oat bars. Totally gluten-free. Absolutely delicious. Loaded with chia. And entirely craveable.
If you give these bars a try, I'd love to see a photo! Post to Instagram and tag me #cheekykitchen
Peanut Butter and Chia Chewy Bars (Gluten-Free)
Serves 12 | 10 minutes
- 1 cup honey
- 1 3/4 cups natural peanut butter
- 3 cups oats
- 1 Tbsp vanilla (optional)
- 3 scoops vanilla plant-based protein powder (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups Enjoy Life! chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup butter or coconut oil
- 1/4 cup + 1 Tbsp chia seeds
- olive oil nonstick
In a large skillet, heat honey until boiling. Stir in peanut butter. Remove from heat and stir in oats, vanilla and protein powder (if using). Press into the bottom of a 9x12" baking pan, sprayed generously with nonstick.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and butter or coconut oil together in 30-second bursts, stirring between, until smooth. Stir in 1/4 cup chia. Spread on bars. Sprinkle with chia.
Refrigerate until firm. Slice, serve and enjoy!