Co+op Basics: Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Bars

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 32 small bars

Calories per serving: 285

Cost per serving: $0.49

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed half cookie sheet (13x18) with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix together peanut butter and softened butter. 
4. Add sugar and brown sugar and cream together until smooth and light.
5. Add eggs and vanilla and mix to combine.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. 
7. Press the cookie dough into the sheet, spreading evenly.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the middle is just set.
9. Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then drop peanut butter dollops evenly over the top.
10. Allow to sit for 1-2 minutes until the peanut butter starts to soften, then spread evenly over the top.
11. In a medium-sized pot over medium heat, add butter, cocoa powder, and milk. Bring to a boil.
12. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.
13. Spread chocolate frosting over the top of the bars and spread in an even layer.
14. Allow frosting to set and bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.