Description

These easiest microwave chewy peanut butter granola bars offer a quick, no-bake snack solution perfect for busy days. Made with oats, crispy rice cereal, peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar, they strike a perfect balance of sweet and satisfying chewiness. Optional mini chocolate chips or nuts add a delightful texture contrast. Prepared in just minutes with a simple microwave method, these bars are ideal for a wholesome, homemade treat that requires minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup crispy rice cereal
½ cup creamy peanut butter
⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Butter Mixture: In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey, and brown sugar. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir thoroughly to blend the ingredients.
Microwave Until Smooth: Return the bowl to the microwave and heat for an additional 30 seconds or until the mixture is bubbly and smooth. This ensures the brown sugar dissolves and the mixture melds well.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until evenly distributed throughout the warm mixture.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats and crispy rice cereal to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are evenly coated by the peanut butter mixture, creating a uniform batter.
Cool and Add Extras: Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly. Gently fold in your choice of mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts if using, to maintain texture and prevent melting.
Press Into Pan: Line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the pan and press it firmly down using a spatula or your hands to create an even, compact layer.
Chill to Set: Refrigerate the pan for at least 30 minutes until the bars are firm and easy to cut.
Cut and Store: Lift the granola slab out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into 10–12 bars and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

For nut-free bars, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
Add dried fruit, coconut flakes, or chia seeds for extra texture and flavor variations.
To make a vegan version, use maple syrup instead of honey and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.