No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Squares

 

With minimal prep these gooey morsels are a luscious treat and provide an ample boost of energy. They do have to be kept in the refrigerator however great for having on hand when you favour a quick bite or two or in need of a sweet nibble to share for any occasion.   

No Bake Peanut Butter Oat Squares

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1 cup crunchy peanut butter 

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons honey 

1 1/4 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries

200 grams dark chocolate chips

Line a freezer proof dish with baking parchment or waxed paper. You want to use a small square dish to ensure a thick slice however I used a standard square baking tin and the slices came out a bit thinner.  

In a medium microwave safe bowl, add the peanut butter and honey and heat in 20 second increments until warm and slightly thickened, about 40 to 60 seconds in total.

Add the oats and chopped cranberries, stir to combine, then add the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Flatten with the back of a spoon until even and smooth.

In another microwave safe bowl, melt the chocolate and pour it over the mixture and refrigerate until hardened, about 2 to 3 hours.

Slice into small pieces and store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. 

Notes: the peanut butter may be replaced with another nut butter and the honey may be replaced with maple syrup.