Irresistible PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars: A Nostalgic Treat for Everyone
Discover the ultimate comfort food dessert with these delightful Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars, swirled generously with sweet grape jelly. These PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they’re a delicious homage to the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, reimagined into a simple, satisfying dessert bar. Perfect for any time of day, these bars combine the chewy texture of an oatmeal cookie with the timeless flavor pairing of peanut butter and jelly, creating a dessert that evokes childhood memories with every bite.
The Timeless Allure of Peanut Butter & Jelly
Few things evoke the comforting embrace of childhood quite like a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. For many, it was a staple of school lunches, a reliable source of energy and joy tucked into a brown bag. My own brother was a prime example, faithfully enjoying his PB&J sandwich every single day throughout elementary school. His preferred rendition was a masterpiece of simplicity: creamy Jif Peanut Butter paired with vibrant Welch’s Grape Jelly, all nestled between slices of soft white bread. It was a ritual, a taste of home carried to the classroom.
Interestingly, I wasn’t initially a member of the PB&J fan club. I was one of those unique children who preferred to bring a thermos filled with warm soup to school daily. My mother, bless her patient heart, always ensured I had my preferred meal. It wasn’t until much later in life that I truly discovered the magic of PB&J. The moment was unremarkable, yet profound: a simple sandwich, unexpectedly paired with a tall, cold glass of milk. It was a revelation! The creamy peanut butter, the sweet-tart jelly, and the refreshing milk created a symphony of flavors that instantly won me over.
While I wouldn’t call myself a fanatic, I’ve certainly come to appreciate the occasional PB&J. And like all true connoisseurs, I have my specific preferences: it absolutely must be made with grape jelly and Jif peanut butter, always served alongside that indispensable cold glass of milk. Some traditions, it seems, are worth adopting later in life.
A Delicious Twist: Discovering PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars
My journey with peanut butter and jelly expanded beyond the sandwich in 2017 when I first created these incredible PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars. The inspiration for this recipe came from a talented blogger friend, and the concept itself had garnered high praise from several other food blogger buddies. The original recipe, as shared by my friends, typically called for strawberry jam. While I know many people adore the strawberry-peanut butter combination, I felt a strong pull to make these bars reflect my own beloved PB&J preference: with the rich, fruity notes of grape jelly.
There’s something uniquely satisfying about adapting a recipe to your exact taste, and in this case, it truly elevated the experience. The grape jelly provides that classic sweet-tart counterpoint to the nutty peanut butter, all enveloped in a tender, chewy oatmeal cookie base. These bars are a testament to how beloved flavors can be transformed into new, exciting forms. If you’re as passionate about peanut butter as I am, you’ll be thrilled to know I have many other peanut butter-centric recipes to explore, including Peanut Butter Fudge, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cookies, and these delightful No-Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookie Bars.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cookie Bar Masterpiece
Crafting these delectable PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars begins with a selection of common pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of chewy texture, rich flavor, and the iconic peanut butter and jelly swirl. You’ll find the complete measurements and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post, but let’s dive into what makes these bars so special.
The Foundation: Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cookie dough, all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure. Using standard all-purpose flour ensures a tender crumb that holds up beautifully to the other ingredients.
- Baking Soda: This leavening agent is key to giving our bars a slight lift and a wonderfully soft texture. It reacts with the brown sugar and other ingredients to create a tender, not dense, bar.
- Rolled Oats: The “oatmeal” in our cookie bars! Rolled oats (either quick-cooking or old-fashioned) add a delightful chewiness and a wholesome, hearty flavor. It’s crucial to avoid steel-cut oats for this recipe, as their tougher texture won’t integrate well into the cookie dough. Rolled oats absorb moisture and soften perfectly during baking, contributing to the bar’s comforting texture.
- Brown Sugar: Whether you opt for light or dark brown sugar, its molasses content is essential. Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor that enhances the overall depth of the cookie bar. It helps keep the bars soft and chewy.
The Heart of the Flavor: Wet Ingredients
- Pure Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of good quality pure vanilla extract is indispensable. It enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic note that makes the cookie base truly irresistible.
- Large Egg: One large egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the dough together and contributing to its rich texture and moistness. It also aids in the overall structure of the bars.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened, unsalted butter is preferred as it allows you to control the salt content in your baking. However, if salted butter is all you have on hand, it will work perfectly fine – just be mindful of any additional salt you might add. Softened butter is crucial for creaming effectively with the sugar, creating a light and airy base for the cookie dough.
The Iconic Swirl: Peanut Butter and Grape Jelly
- Grape Jelly: For these jelly bars, I exclusively use a full cup of grape jelly. Its distinct sweet and tangy flavor is what, for me, defines the classic PB&J experience. However, the beauty of this recipe is its versatility – feel free to substitute with your preferred jam or preserve. Use the kind you love most on your sandwiches!
- Peanut Butter: I typically opt for crunchy peanut butter in the oatmeal cookie dough to add an extra layer of texture and nutty flavor. The small peanut pieces provide a delightful bite. If you prefer a smoother texture, creamy peanut butter works just as wonderfully and will result in a more uniform dough.
Baking Bliss: Crafting Your PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Making these peanut butter jelly cookie bars is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these steps for perfectly baked, gooey, and delicious treats that will disappear in no time.
Preparation is Key
First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your 13×9 inch baking pan. Lining the pan with aluminum foil is a game-changer for easy removal and cleanup. Make sure to leave a little extra foil extending over the edges of the pan – these will serve as convenient handles later. Lightly grease the foil with butter; this prevents sticking and ensures your bars lift out effortlessly once cooled.
Mixing the Perfect Dough
Now for the heart of our cookie bars – the dough. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, begin by beating the softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract together at a low speed until the mixture is light and creamy. This creaming process incorporates air, contributing to the tenderness of the bars. Next, beat in the egg until fully combined. Once the egg is incorporated, mix in the peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking soda, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars. Finally, gently fold in the rolled oats. You want them evenly distributed but avoid crushing them. The dough will be thick and wonderfully fragrant.
Assembling Your Delicious Layers
Once your dough is ready, set aside about ½ cup of it. This reserved dough will be used for the delightful topping. Press the remaining, larger portion of the dough into an even layer across the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Don’t worry if it seems a bit crumbly; just press firmly with your hands or the back of a spoon to create a solid base. Next, carefully spread the grape jelly over this cookie dough base. Aim for an even layer, ensuring every bite will get a taste of that sweet-tart goodness. Finally, take the reserved ½ cup of dough. Pinch off small, irregular globs and scatter them artfully over the layer of jelly. These little dollops will bake into a beautiful, textured topping, creating that signature “crumble” effect.
The Golden Finish
Place your assembled pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes. Baking time can vary, so keep an eye on your bars. They are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top begins to turn a lovely golden brown. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely. This cooling step is critical – resist the urge to cut them warm, as they need time to set and firm up. Once cool, use the foil edges to lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut them into perfectly sized squares. Now they’re ready to serve and enjoy!
Love it? Pin it!
If you’re already dreaming about these delicious peanut butter bar cookies, make sure you save this recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you can easily find it whenever a craving strikes.
Frequently Asked Questions About PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Here are some common questions about these delightful bars to ensure you get the most out of your baking experience.
- Do PB&J crumble bars need to be refrigerated? For optimal freshness and texture, these delicious dessert bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature on your kitchen counter for about 3-4 days. Refrigeration might alter their texture slightly, making them a bit firmer, but it will extend their shelf life by a few extra days if needed.
- Why are oatmeal bars considered healthy? While these are undoubtedly a sweet treat, the inclusion of oatmeal adds beneficial elements. Oatmeal is naturally rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. It also provides a good source of complex carbohydrates and some protein. Incorporating these peanut butter oatmeal bars into a balanced diet, enjoyed in moderation, can certainly be a healthier dessert option compared to many others.
- What else can you put peanut butter and jelly on? The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to the iconic duo of peanut butter and jelly! Beyond the classic sandwich and these amazing cookie bars, you can spread them on warm toast, fluffy bagels, crispy pancakes or waffles, soft scones, or even delectable muffins. It’s a versatile topping that instantly adds comfort and flavor to a wide array of breakfast or snack items.
- How many calories are in peanut butter oatmeal bars? The calorie count for any baked good, including these peanut butter oatmeal bars, will vary depending on the size of each serving. Naturally, a larger bar will have more calories than a smaller one. It’s always a good practice to focus on enjoying these delicious treats mindfully and in moderation, rather than stressing too much about exact calorie figures. Cut this perfect dessert into smaller pieces for portion control, allowing yourself to savor a little bit at a time without guilt.
Unlock New Flavors: Creative Substitutions & Variations
One of the joys of baking is the freedom to customize and experiment. These PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars are incredibly adaptable, allowing you to tailor them to your personal preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fantastic substitutions and variations to try:
Jelly & Jam Alternatives
- Raspberry Jam: For a vibrant, slightly tart flavor, swap grape jelly for raspberry jam. The small seeds can add an interesting texture too.
- Strawberry Preserves: If you’re a fan of the classic strawberry-peanut butter combo, strawberry preserves offer a delightful sweetness and chunks of fruit.
- Apricot or Peach Jam: For a more unique and sophisticated flavor profile, consider using apricot or peach jam. Their delicate fruitiness pairs wonderfully with peanut butter.
- Your Favorite Jam: Don’t be afraid to experiment with any jam or preserve you adore! The key is to use a fruit spread that complements the rich peanut butter.
Peanut Butter Swaps
- Creamy Peanut Butter: If you prefer a smoother dough and texture without any crunch from nuts, creamy peanut butter is an excellent choice. It works seamlessly in the recipe.
- Almond Butter: For those with a peanut allergy or who simply prefer a different nut flavor, almond butter is a fantastic alternative. It will impart a slightly different, yet equally delicious, nutty taste to this sweet treat. Cashew butter could also be an option.
Boost Your Texture & Flavor
- Chopped Peanuts: For an extra layer of crunch and intensified peanut flavor, fold some chopped roasted peanuts into the peanut butter cookie mixture before spreading it into the pan.
- Peanut Butter Chips: Elevate the classic peanut butter flavor even further by sprinkling a handful of peanut butter chips over the jelly layer before adding the final dough dollops. They’ll melt slightly, creating pockets of rich peanut butter goodness.
- Chocolate Chips: Who can resist the pairing of chocolate and peanut butter? Add a scattering of mini chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet) to the cookie dough or over the jelly layer for an extra indulgent twist.
Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter & Jelly Bars
Achieving bakery-quality cookie bars at home is easier than you think, especially with a few insider tips. Here’s how to ensure your PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars turn out perfectly every time:
Achieving Optimal Ingredient Consistency
The temperature of your butter and peanut butter makes a significant difference in the final texture of your cookie bars. Always remember to take both the butter and peanut butter out of the refrigerator well in advance of starting your preparation – ideally, at least 30 minutes to an hour beforehand. They should be softened to room temperature, not melted. Softened butter creams beautifully with sugar, incorporating air and creating a light, fluffy base for your dough. Room temperature peanut butter will also blend smoothly, preventing lumps and ensuring a uniform consistency in your cookie dough. This simple step is crucial for an easily workable dough and an evenly baked bar.
Choosing the Right Oats
The type of oats you use can dramatically impact the texture of your oatmeal cookie bars. For this recipe, it is essential to use rolled oats, either quick-cooking or old-fashioned. Rolled oats provide a chewy, hearty texture that is characteristic of oatmeal cookies and absorbs moisture perfectly during baking. Absolutely avoid instant oats, which are too finely processed and will result in a mushier, less textured bar. Similarly, steel-cut oats are too tough and will not soften adequately within the baking time, leading to a gritty and unpleasant texture. Stick to rolled oats for that classic, satisfying chew.
The Art of Cooling and Cutting
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to cutting baked goods! While the aroma of freshly baked PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars might tempt you to dig in immediately, it’s vital to allow them to cool completely in the pan. Warm bars are fragile and prone to crumbling, making them difficult to slice cleanly. Cooling allows the fats in the butter and peanut butter to solidify, setting the structure of the bars and ensuring they hold their shape beautifully. Once fully cooled, use the foil overhangs to gently lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan. Place it on a clean cutting board. For clean, neat squares, use a large, sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts if necessary to prevent dragging the jelly. This ensures each bar is picture-perfect and ready to enjoy.
Explore More Irresistible Dessert Bar Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of dessert bars, you’re in for a treat! There’s a whole world of bar recipes waiting to be discovered. From rich and gooey to light and fruity, dessert bars are perfect for potlucks, parties, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Here are some more of my favorite dessert bar recipes that I know you’ll adore:
- Sweet & Salty Brownies (pictured above, a delightful mix of flavors!)
- Iced Snickerdoodle Bars (a cinnamon-sugar classic in bar form)
- Classic Nanaimo Bars (a beloved no-bake Canadian treat)
- Fresh Orange Bars (zesty and refreshing)
- Raisin Spice Bars (warm, comforting, and full of flavor)
- No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Bars (another easy peanut butter favorite)
- Scotcheroo Pinwheels (a fun twist on a classic candy bar)
- Hazelnut Bars (rich, nutty, and decadent)
Without a doubt, this recipe for PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars stands out as one of the best peanut butter cookie bar recipes you’ll ever make. Its nostalgic charm, reminiscent of the beloved peanut butter and jelly sandwich, makes this easy dessert an instant family favorite. It’s the perfect solution for busy moms and anyone looking for delightful yet simple peanut butter desserts. The biggest challenge you’ll face is deciding when to make this irresistible treat: perhaps during the festive Christmas season, as a comforting after-school snack, or as a star attraction at your next bake sale. Whenever you choose to make them, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles!
LIKE THIS RECIPE?
Don’t forget to give it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and
leave a comment below the recipe!
Print Recipe
PB&J Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Equipment
- Rubber Spatulas
- Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Hand Mixer
- 9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid
Ingredients
- 2 sticks of butter softened
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- 2 cups of rolled oats
- 1 cup grape jelly
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175°C). Line a 13 x 9 baking pan with foil, leaving a little extra over the edge of the dish. Grease foil with butter.
- In a mixer, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Beat in the egg. Mix in the peanut butter until well combined. Slowly add in the flour and baking soda, mixing until just incorporated. Gently fold in the rolled oats.
- Set aside 1/2 cup of the dough. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
- Spread the grape jelly uniformly over the top of the dough.
- Pinch off small pieces of the reserved dough and artfully drop them on top of the jelly layer.
- Bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool completely in the pan. Use the edges of the foil to carefully pull the bars out of the pan for easy cutting. Cut into squares with a sharp knife.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on June 7, 2017. It has been updated to improve user experience and re-shared on February 27, 2023.
