Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

I ran across this recipe the other day, and was immediately sucked in.  By the peanut butter? The chocolate?  No.  The oatmeal.  I love uncooked oatmeal.  I like to mix it with yogurt and let it sit for a couple minutes to get that raw chewiness.  I have been known to sneak a pinch right out of the container.  So, when I saw this essentially uncooked oatmeal crust, I pretty much glossed over the rest.  If you ask me, the peanut butter and chocolate are simply there so you aren't eating plain oatmeal mixed with butter and sugar.  Although after trying one of these, one might make a case for it.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

3/4 cup butter

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3 cups quick cooking oats

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1/2 cup peanut butter

Lightly grease an 8x8 inch square pan.  Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.  Add the brown sugar and vanilla, then stir in the oats.  Cook and stir for three or four minutes.  Press half of the oatmeal mixture in the bottom of the prepared pan.

In a medium sized microwave safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter.  Heat the mixture in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until the chocolate and peanut butter are melted and well blended.  Pour the chocolate mixture over the prepared oatmeal crust, reserving  a small amount to drizzle over the top.  Carefully (it may still be hot) sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the chocolate layer, then press gently to form a top crust.  Drizzle the remaining chocolate mixture over the top.  Refrigerate the bars for 2 to 3 hours until thoroughly chilled, then cut into squares and serve.  Makes 12 to 16 bars.

Enjoy!  -Cardamommy