Save Peanut Butter Cinnamon Raisin Bars have become my go-to recipe whenever I want something homemade for breakfast or a nourishing snack on the run. They use wholesome ingredients and fill the kitchen with a warm cinnamon aroma as they bake. When my family starts hovering around the oven before they are even out, I know I have a winner.
These bars got me through a stretch of busy school mornings. My son loves them in his lunchbox and my daughter asks for them after soccer practice. I usually have all the ingredients on hand so it is simple to throw together.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: They form the chewy base Always use oats labeled as gluten-free if needed
- Whole wheat flour: Gives structure and a nutty flavor Go for freshly milled or stone ground for heartier texture
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and pairs beautifully with peanut butter Try Ceylon cinnamon for a delicate flavor
- Baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly and stay tender Make sure it is not expired
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings all the flavors together Use fine sea salt for even mixing
- Creamy peanut butter: Provides richness and protein Choose natural brands with just peanuts and salt for best results
- Honey or maple syrup: sweetens naturally and helps bind the bars Pick raw honey or pure maple syrup for deep flavor
- Unsalted butter or coconut oil: gives moisture and softness Use butter for a classic taste Coconut oil for dairy free and subtle coconut notes
- Large egg or flax egg: binds everything and makes the bars cohesive Room temperature eggs mix more easily
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors Go for real vanilla instead of imitation
- Raisins: Provide natural sweetness and chewiness Choose plump juicy raisins or soak them for ten minutes if dry
- Chopped walnuts (optional): Give crunch and earthy taste Look for fresh untoasted walnuts to avoid bitterness
Instructions
- Prep the pan:
- Line an eight by eight inch baking pan with parchment paper leaving extra hanging over the edges This lets you lift the finished bars out in one piece
- Mix dry ingredients:
- Combine oats whole wheat flour cinnamon baking soda and salt in a large bowl Whisk thoroughly to distribute everything evenly so no clumps form in the baked bars
- Blend wet ingredients:
- In another bowl blend creamy peanut butter honey melted butter egg and vanilla extract Mix until you get a smooth cohesive mixture that smells like dessert
- Combine mixtures:
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients Stir with a spatula just until you no longer see dry flour Overmixing can make the bars dense
- Fold in add-ins:
- Gently fold in the raisins and walnuts Make sure they are dispersed throughout so each bar gets a bite
- Fill the pan:
- Spoon the batter into your lined pan Press down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer Pressing ensures the bars bake up chewy and hold together
- Bake to perfection:
- Place in the oven and bake for twenty two to twenty five minutes You will know they are done when edges turn golden brown and the center is set but not hard
- Cool then slice:
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan for clean cutting Use the parchment paper overhang to lift out Transfer to a cutting board and slice into twelve equal bars
Save I have a particular fondness for the combination of cinnamon and peanut butter In my house whenever I use these together the kitchen immediately feels cozier These bars disappeared so quickly during our last game night I barely got to save one for breakfast the next day
Storage Tips
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for four days The flavor actually improves after a day If you want them to last longer refrigerate and they will stay fresh for up to a week You can also freeze individually wrapped bars for up to three months Defrost overnight in the fridge or gently warm in the microwave
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have raisins try dried cranberries or chopped dates Sunflower seed butter can replace peanut butter for nut free baking Coconut oil is an easy swap for butter if dairy is a concern If you need egg free use a flax egg made from ground flaxseed and water The recipe is very forgiving and lets you get creative with what is on hand
Serving Suggestions
These bars pair perfectly with a morning coffee or a mug of tea For a more filling breakfast serve with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit My kids like theirs warmed up with a little drizzle of extra peanut butter or honey Cut into smaller squares and add to a snack platter for parties
Cultural Context
Bar cookies like these are a staple of American home baking Combining oats peanut butter and cinnamon is very nostalgic for many families This recipe takes inspiration from classic oatmeal raisin cookies but makes them heartier and more snackable for busy days
Seasonal Adaptations
Use dried apples or cranberries in the fall for a different spin Mix in mini chocolate chips for summer road trips Add pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for autumn baking
Success Stories
I once brought these bars to a bake sale and had three requests for the recipe before the morning was over They transport easily and always get rave reviews from kids and adults alike I even started doubling the recipe so there would be enough for everyone
Freezer Meal Conversion
Make a double batch and freeze half after baking and cooling Wrap each bar individually and store in a zip bag in the freezer They make the perfect grab and go breakfast on busy weekdays
Save These bars are sure to become a staple in your kitchen Share them with your friends or freeze for quick breakfasts and you will always want another batch on hand
Recipe Help
- → What type of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats provide chewiness and texture. Quick oats may result in bars that are less firm.
- → Can I substitute peanut butter?
Yes, use sunflower seed butter for nut-free bars, or almond butter for a different flavor.
- → How can I make these vegan?
Replace honey with maple syrup and use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, rested).
- → Are alternative dried fruits suitable?
Try dried cranberries, chopped dates, or apricots instead of raisins for a different taste.
- → How should I store these bars?
Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze for longer storage.
- → Can I add nuts to the mixture?
Chopped walnuts add crunch and flavor, but can be omitted or replaced for nut-free needs.