Are you tired of boring breakfasts that leave you hungry and unsatisfied? Get ready to discover the most incredible, nutrient-packed breakfast bars that will revolutionize your morning routine! These Cacao Peanut Oatmeal Breakfast Bars are not just a meal; they're a delicious, energy-boosting experience that combines rich chocolate flavor, protein-packed peanuts, and wholesome oats into one irresistible package. Whether you're a busy professional, a fitness enthusiast, or just someone who craves a quick and delicious breakfast, these bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Breakfast
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cacao powder
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and cacao powder, whisking thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the cacao powder.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the peanut butter for 20-30 seconds to make it more fluid. Add maple syrup and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until a consistent, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Fold in the chopped peanuts, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing firmly and evenly with the back of a spatula to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, until the edges start to firm up and the top looks set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour before lifting out using parchment paper and cutting into 12 equal bars.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- For the most intense flavor, use high-quality cacao powder and natural peanut butter.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure compact, easy-to-handle bars.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars after cooling.
- Customize by adding chia seeds or protein powder for additional nutrition.
- If you prefer a softer texture, reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes.
- These bars freeze beautifully - wrap individually for grab-and-go breakfast options.
- Use room temperature ingredients for the most consistent mixing and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg