Chocolate-Peanut Butter Oat Bars Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 3/4 cup toasted pecans
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch square baking pan with foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
2. For the crust: In a food processor, pulse the flour, oats, pecans, white sugar, coconut, brown sugar, and salt until well blended.
3. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Spoon three-fourths of the oat mixture (approximately 4 1/2 cups) into the prepared pan and press it into an even layer.
5. Transfer the remaining one-fourth of the oat mixture to a small bowl. Using your hands, squeeze and rub the mixture together until crumbly.
6. Spread the streusel mixture on a rimmed baking sheet and bake both pans. Stir the streusel halfway through, and bake until golden, about 18 minutes.
7. Remove the streusel from the oven. Continue baking the crust until golden brown, about 12 minutes more.
8. Meanwhile, for the filling: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, microwave the chocolate chips and peanut butter on High in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until melted and fully combined.
9. To assemble: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the baked crust and sprinkle with the streusel.
10. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours, or until set. Once set, cut into 20 bars and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	256
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	24mg
Sodium	123mg
Total Carbohydrate	27g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	16g
Protein	3g
Calcium	15mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	96mg

History and Origins

The combination of chocolate and peanut butter has long been a beloved pairing in American cuisine, with its roots dating back to the early 20th century. While the exact origin of the chocolate-peanut butter pairing is unclear, it became particularly popular in the United States in the 1920s when peanut butter gained mainstream popularity. The use of oats in dessert bars like these can be traced back to the mid-1900s when oats were increasingly incorporated into baked goods for their heartiness and nutritional benefits. Chocolate-Peanut Butter Oat Bars embody a modern twist on classic American flavor pairings, merging the creamy richness of peanut butter and chocolate with the wholesome, chewy texture of oats.

Regional Features

While the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Oat Bars are a popular treat across the United States, they have specific regional significance in the American Midwest, where oats are a staple ingredient in many local desserts. The use of pecans, coconut, and a buttery oat base adds a regional flair, particularly common in southern and southwestern states where these ingredients are abundant. The versatility of the recipe also allows it to be adapted based on local preferencesadding or removing certain nuts, fruits, or even switching to other nut butters like almond or cashew depending on regional tastes.

Differences from Similar Desserts

While similar to other dessert bars such as chocolate chip bars or oatmeal cookies, Chocolate-Peanut Butter Oat Bars stand out due to their combination of a rich, buttery oat crust topped with a smooth, decadent peanut butter and chocolate drizzle. Unlike traditional oatmeal cookies, which often have a lighter, cakey texture, these bars are denser and more indulgent. The addition of coconut and pecans also adds extra texture and flavor complexity, differentiating them from simple oatmeal-based bars or cookies. These bars provide a more intense, layered flavor experience due to the contrast between the crunchy oat base and the creamy, gooey peanut butter and chocolate topping.

Where They Are Typically Served

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Oat Bars are a popular dessert served at a wide range of occasions, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. These bars are often found at bake sales, potlucks, and picnics due to their portability and ease of sharing. They are also a go-to treat for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, offering a rich, sweet option alongside traditional pies and cakes. Due to their combination of both sweet and savory elements, these bars can be served as a snack or dessert in both informal and semi-formal settings. They are also ideal for brunch gatherings or as a quick treat for busy afternoons.

Fun Facts

• The pairing of chocolate and peanut butter became famous in the United States in 1928 when Reese's Peanut Butter Cups were first introduced. The combination was an instant success and continues to be one of the most popular flavor combinations today.
• Oats, a main ingredient in these bars, are an incredibly nutritious grain, packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. Their inclusion in dessert recipes like these provides a healthier alternative to more refined flour-based treats.
• Peanut butter has long been a versatile pantry staple in American households. In fact, the first patent for peanut butter was filed in 1884 by a man named John Harvey Kellogg, who believed it was a health food suitable for people with chewing difficulties.
• Chocolate-Peanut Butter Oat Bars can easily be customized with different types of chocolate chips, nuts, or even the addition of dried fruit for added flavor and texture.

FAQ about Chocolate-Peanut Butter Oat Bars Recipe

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