Peanut Butter & Jelly Chia Bars

Peanut Butter & Jelly Chia Bars

Julia

These Peanut Butter & Jelly Chia Bars transform the beloved childhood sandwich into a sophisticated, nutritious grab-and-go snack that's perfect for busy mornings, lunchboxes, or post-workout fuel. Combining the protein-rich goodness of natural peanut butter with the omega-3 power of chia seeds and the natural sweetness of fruit spread, these bars deliver both nostalgia and nutrition in every bite.

The magic happens when chia seeds absorb moisture and create a gel-like consistency that binds everything together without the need for baking or complicated techniques. The result is a chewy, satisfying bar with distinct layers of creamy peanut butter and fruity sweetness that stays together beautifully. Unlike traditional PB&J sandwiches that can get soggy, these bars maintain their texture and integrity for days when stored properly.

Perfectly gluten-free and customizable to your taste preferences, these bars are made with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. The base layer features a blend of gluten-free oats, chia seeds, and peanut butter that provides sustained energy, while the fruit spread layer adds natural sweetness and a pop of flavor. Whether you use classic grape jelly, strawberry jam, or a more adventurous raspberry or apricot spread, these bars adapt to your preferences while keeping that iconic PB&J flavor profile intact.

Ideal for meal prep, these bars can be made on Sunday and enjoyed throughout the week. They're sturdy enough to toss in a bag without worry, making them perfect for hiking, traveling, or keeping in your desk drawer for an afternoon pick-me-up. Kids and adults alike will appreciate this modern twist on a timeless classic.

Julia

Julia

Recipe Author: Gluten-Free & Specialty Diet Chef

Nutrition

2 hours 15 minutes
None servings
245 calories
Fat 11.00g
Carbs 32.00g
Protein 6.00g

Ingredients

2 cupsgluten-free rolled oats
1/2 cupchia seeds
3/4 cupnatural peanut butter, creamy
1/3 cuphoney
1 tspvanilla extract
1/4 tspsalt
1/4 cupalmond milk, unsweetened
3/4 cupfruit spread or jelly, any flavor
2 tbspcoconut oil, melted

Equipment

Cutting board
Parchment paper
measuring spoons
measuring cups
large mixing bowl
sharp knife
small saucepan
spatula or wooden spoon
microwave-safe bowl
8x8 inch baking pan

80/20 Diet

Aligns with the 80/20 diet by using nutrient-dense whole food ingredients like chia seeds, oats, and natural peanut butter, with honey providing a small amount of less nutritionally optimal sweetness.

Clean Eating

Ideal for clean eating with whole, minimally processed ingredients like natural peanut butter, gluten-free oats, chia seeds, and fruit spread. The recipe avoids refined sugars and uses whole food ingredients in their natural state.

Gluten-Free Diet

This recipe is perfectly gluten-free, using gluten-free rolled oats as the base and avoiding any wheat-based ingredients. The natural ingredients like chia seeds, peanut butter, and fruit spread make it a safe and delicious option for those avoiding gluten.

Mindful Eating

Supports mindful eating principles by featuring whole ingredients with varied textures and flavors, encouraging slow consumption and sensory appreciation of nutritious components like chia seeds, peanut butter, and fruit spread.

Instructions

1

Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal. Set aside.

2 min
2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats and chia seeds. Stir together until evenly distributed.

1 min
3

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the peanut butter, honey, and melted coconut oil. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth and well combined. Alternatively, warm gently in a small saucepan over low heat.

2 min
4

Add the vanilla extract and salt to the peanut butter mixture and stir until incorporated.

5

Pour the peanut butter mixture over the oat and chia seed mixture. Add the almond milk and stir vigorously until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the oats are evenly coated. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.

2 min
6

Transfer two-thirds of the oat mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly and evenly using the back of a spoon or spatula, creating a compact base layer that reaches all corners.

2 min
7

Spread the fruit spread or jelly evenly over the base layer, leaving a small border around the edges (about 1/4 inch) to prevent the jelly from seeping out the sides.

2 min
8

Crumble the remaining one-third of the oat mixture evenly over the jelly layer, pressing down gently to help it adhere. It's okay if some jelly shows through in spots.

2 min
9

Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set. For best results, refrigerate overnight.

2h
10

Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut into 12 bars (3 rows by 4 rows).

2 min
11

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or wrap individually in parchment paper for easy grab-and-go convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions