No-Bake Oatmeal and Chocolate Chip Bars (Gluten-free)

Filled with the goodness of rolled oats, walnuts, protein powder, nut butter, dark chocolate and honey, these gluten-free bars are ideal for snacking or even a grab-and-go breakfast. Skip the store-bought bars and make your own because they are really easy to prepare, customizable and so delicious. The hardest part of this recipe is waiting for the bars to set.

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Recipe

No-Bake Oatmeal and chocolate chip Bars

(Makes 10 bars)

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats 
2 tbsp chopped walnuts 
1/3 cup dark chocolate chips 
1/4 cup protein powder (optional)
3/4 cup peanut or almond butter
1/4 cup honey or date syrup
1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 tsp powdered cinnamon

Method

Line an 8”x8” baking pan with parchment paper. 

In a frying pan, lightly toast the oats and walnuts over medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool. 

Set aside 2 tbsp of chocolate chips for garnish and add the rest to a mixing bowl. Add the toasted oats, walnuts and protein powder, if using. 

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the nut butter, honey, vanilla extract and cinnamon. Microwave on high for 20 seconds, then mix until smooth.

Add the nut butter and honey mixture into the oats and stir well to combine. The chocolate chips will start to melt and this will help bind the bars. 

Spoon the mixture into the parchment-lined pan and press down with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top. Use clean hands to level and spread the mixture evenly in the pan.

Place the pan in the freezer for 20 minutes. Remove, cut into bars and enjoy.

Store the oatmeal bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.