Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars

16 servings
Dates provide all the sweetness you need for these no-bake energy bars. Each square serves up a hearty dose of protein--thanks to peanut butter and peanuts--as well as fiber from rolled oats. Kids will love the chewy bites with crunchy nuts.

Ingredients

  • chopped medjool dates
    ¾ c
  • smooth natural peanut butter
    1 c
  • rolled oats (see tip
    ½ c
  • salt
    ¼ tsp
  • chopped unsalted dry-roasted peanuts
    ½ c
  • bittersweet chocolate chips
    ¾ c

Directions

  1. 1

    Soak dates in hot water to cover in a medium bowl for 10 minutes. Drain, reserving the soaking water.

  2. 2

    Meanwhile, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra hanging over 2 sides. Lightly coat the parchment with cooking spray.

  3. 3

    Combine the soaked dates, peanut butter, oats and salt in a food processor; process until very finely chopped and starting to clump together. If the mixture seems dry, add a little of the reserved soaking water, 1 tablespoon at a time. Transfer to the medium bowl and stir in peanuts. Spread the mixture evenly and firmly into the prepared pan.

  4. 4

    Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave on Medium (50%) until melted, 2 to 3 minutes. Spread the chocolate evenly over the oat mixture. Refrigerate until cold, about 1 hour. Remove from the pan by lifting the overhanging parchment. Cut into 16 squares.

    Step 4
Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars

Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars

4.7(13)85 min16 servings203 cal

Similar Recipes

Peanut Butter Protein Bars

Peanut Butter Protein Bars

The BEST homemade peanut butter protein bars. Easy, healthy protein bar recipe with oatmeal, honey, and protein powder. No bake!

75 minutes12 servings
Peanut Butter Bars

Peanut Butter Bars

These peanut butter bars are rich, creamy, and taste just like peanut butter cups. Made with just 5 ingredients, these no-bake bars are easy to make.

85 minutes12 servings532 kcal
Peanut Butter Cornflake Crunch Bars

Peanut Butter Cornflake Crunch Bars

A very simple-to-make bar cookie recipe with just 4 ingredients: cornflakes, smooth peanut butter, sugar and corn syrup. Kids love them!

15 minutes12 servings353 kcal
Chocolate Peanut Butter Dessert (Dream Bar Recipe)

Chocolate Peanut Butter Dessert (Dream Bar Recipe)

Our peanut butter chocolate dessert is loaded with chocolate pudding, a fluffy layer of cream cheese and peanut butter, and a cookie base for a sinfully delicious treat.

2.4 hours12 servings522 kcal
Peanut Butter Protein Bars

Peanut Butter Protein Bars

These Peanut Butter Protein Bars are made with a few simple ingredients and make for a delicious snack! Made all in one bowl and perfect to have for a sweet snack or treat.

4.3 hours0 servings
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Bars

These Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and full of peanut butter and dark chocolate!

30 minutes24 servings
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Energy Balls

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Energy Balls

Easy, no-bake energy ball recipe perfect for snacks, lunch boxes & post-workout recovery. Tasty bites made with peanut butter, chocolate chips & oatmeal!

5 minutes
Peanut Butter Jam Cookies

Peanut Butter Jam Cookies

These Peanut Butter Jam Cookies are simple 4-ingredient cookies rich in fiber and protein and free of eggs, dairy, and gluten!

20 minutes12 servings180 kcal

Ratings & Reviews

0.0/ 5
Exceptional

Based on 13 ratings

eatingwell.com
4.7(13 reviews)
View original recipe

Rating Breakdown

About this Recipe

Tired of store-bought energy bars packed with mystery ingredients? These homemade Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars are your answer to a wholesome, delicious snack that’s easy to make right in your kitchen.

Why These Energy Bars Work

This no-bake recipe shines by using chopped Medjool dates for all the necessary sweetness, eliminating the need for any added sugar. You’ll love how quickly these come together, providing a hearty dose of protein from both creamy natural peanut butter and crunchy peanuts, plus beneficial fiber from rolled oats. It's a truly satisfying and balanced bite.

What to Expect

Prepare for a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Each bar offers a soft, chewy foundation thanks to the dates and oats, complemented by the smooth richness of peanut butter. The chopped unsalted dry-roasted peanuts introduce a wonderful crunch, while bittersweet chocolate chips deliver a classic, comforting finish. These bars are designed to be substantial and satisfying, perfect for curbing cravings and providing sustained energy without feeling heavy.

Customization & Variations

While the classic combination is fantastic, these bars are also quite adaptable. You can easily swap the chopped peanuts for another favorite nut like walnuts or pecans to change up the crunch and flavor profile. If you're out of bittersweet chocolate, semi-sweet chips work just as well. For a different twist, consider stirring in a dash of cinnamon or a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper with the salt for a subtle warmth.

Serving & Context

These Chocolate-Peanut Butter Energy Bars are a perfect grab-and-go snack for busy mornings, a post-workout refuel, or a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up. Their chewy bites and crunchy nuts also make them an instant hit with kids.

Frequently Asked Questions