Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares

$- 1 cup rolled oats - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup - 1/2 cup almond flour - 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds) - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs - 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional) - 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional) These ingredients work together to give you tasty energy squares. The oats provide fiber, while peanut butter brings in protein. Honey or maple syrup gives the right sweetness. Almond flour adds a nice texture and nutrition. You can add extra ingredients to make your squares special. Here are some ideas: - 1/4 cup dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for sweetness - 1/4 cup seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch - A scoop of protein powder for a protein boost These options let you change the flavor and health benefits. If you need to swap ingredients, here are some good choices: - Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for nut-free squares. - Replace honey with agave syrup if you want a vegan option. - Use coconut flour instead of almond flour for a different taste. These substitutions help you fit your diet needs while keeping the energy squares delicious. To make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares, you start by gathering your ingredients. This recipe is easy and quick. You can whip it up in about 15 minutes. The first step is mixing your dry ingredients. This helps the flavors blend well. Next, you'll warm the peanut butter and honey together. This makes it easier to mix. Finally, you will press everything into a dish and chill it. 1. Grab a large mixing bowl. Add the rolled oats, almond flour, chia seeds, chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. 2. Use a spoon to stir these dry ingredients until they mix well. Make sure it's even. 3. In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter and honey. Heat it for 20-30 seconds until it melts a bit. 4. Stir it until it's smooth. This step is key for good mixing. 5. Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over your dry mix. 6. Stir everything together until it becomes sticky and well combined. 1. Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the sides. This helps you lift the squares out later. 2. Transfer the mixture into the dish. Press it down firmly and evenly. You can use a spatula or your hands for this. 3. Once it's packed tightly, place the dish in the refrigerator. Chill it for at least 1 hour. This helps the squares set. 4. After an hour, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares or bars as you like. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares! To make your Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares, start with a large bowl. Mix the rolled oats, almond flour, chia seeds, chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine these dry items. This step ensures even flavor in each bite. You want every piece to taste great. To get the right texture, warm the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup. Microwave them for about 20-30 seconds until they are slightly melted. This makes mixing easier. When you pour the warm mixture over the dry ingredients, it helps everything stick together. Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish. This step keeps the squares from crumbling. When it's time to serve, use a colorful plate. Arrange the energy squares neatly. Add a drizzle of peanut butter on top for a fun look. You can also sprinkle some shredded coconut over the squares. This adds a nice touch and makes them more appealing. Remember, we eat with our eyes first! {{image_2}} To make these energy squares vegan, swap honey for maple syrup. This change keeps the sweetness while fitting a vegan diet. Use smooth peanut butter or any nut butter you enjoy. You can also add more chia seeds to boost nutrition. This option makes a yummy treat for everyone! For gluten-free energy squares, use certified gluten-free rolled oats and almond flour. These swaps ensure you stay gluten-free without losing flavor or texture. You can also add gluten-free nuts and chocolate chips. Always check labels to avoid hidden gluten in products. Enjoy these tasty squares worry-free! Feel free to mix in fun flavors! Here are some ideas: - Fruits: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates for sweetness. - Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract can add depth. - Seeds: Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds make great crunchy additions. - Nut Butters: Try almond or cashew butter for a twist. Experiment with these ideas to find your favorite combo. Each variation brings a new taste! You want to keep your Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares fresh and tasty. After cutting them, place the squares in a single layer in a container. If you stack them, use parchment paper between layers. This way, they won’t stick together. These energy squares last about a week in the fridge. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Wrap each square in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. The best containers for your energy squares are airtight ones. Glass containers work well, but plastic ones are fine too. Just ensure the lid seals tightly. This helps keep them fresh and prevents odors from other foods. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares are tasty snacks packed with nutrients. They mix oats, peanut butter, and honey for a sweet treat. Each square gives you energy, making them perfect for busy days. You can eat them for breakfast, lunch, or a snack. They are easy to make and fun to share. You can swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter. Both options keep the squares creamy and tasty. You can also try tahini for a nut-free twist. Just follow the same steps in the recipe. The taste will change a bit, but they will still be great. Yes! You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup as alternatives. Both will add sweetness and keep the texture nice. If you prefer, you can use stevia or monk fruit for a low-calorie option. Just remember to adjust the amount based on how sweet you like it. Peanut butter oatmeal energy squares are easy and fun to make. We explored the key ingredients, mixing steps, and baking tips for perfect texture. You can even customize them with your favorite flavors or dietary needs. Storing them right helps you enjoy these snacks longer. Try these squares for a tasty treat or quick energy boost. Remember, experimenting with flavors makes cooking enjoyable. Get creative and make them your own!$

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares

Discover the ultimate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Energy Squares recipe! These easy-to-make treats combine rolled oats, creamy peanut butter, and dark chocolate for a deliciously nutritious snack. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a post-workout boost, these energy squares are packed with wholesome ingredients. Ready in just 15 minutes plus chilling time, click through to explore this simple recipe and bring energy to your day!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup almond flour

1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds)

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)

1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, chia seeds, chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, shredded coconut, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix evenly.

In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) together in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until slightly melted and easy to mix. Stir until smooth.

Pour the warmed peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined and sticky.

Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Transfer the energy square mixture into the lined dish, pressing it down firmly and evenly. You can use a spatula or your hands to ensure it’s tightly packed.

Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour to allow it to firm up.

Once set, lift the mixture out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares or bars.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 16 squares

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the energy squares on a colorful plate, drizzled with a little extra peanut butter and sprinkled with shredded coconut for an eye-catching finish.