Step 1

Line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. I like to use binder clips to clamp the parchment down so it stays in place.

Step 2

Combine oats, peanuts, chocolate chunks and chia seeds in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3

Heat peanut butter and maple syrup in a medium saucepan over medium low heat, stirring constantly until combined and warm, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and sea salt.

Step 4

Pour peanut butter mixture into the bowl with the oat mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. It’s okay if the chocolate starts to melt.

Step 5

Dump mixture into your prepared pan and press the mixture down firmly using your hands or a rubber spatula so it’s evenly spread out. Sprinkle more chocolate chips on top and press them down into the bars.

Step 6

Once bars are pressed down firmly, place bars in the fridge for at least 2 hours to allow them to cool and firm up.

Step 7

Once the bars feel solid/hard to the touch, remove them from the pan, place on a cutting board and slice into 10 even bars. Serve immediately or save for later.

Step 8

These bars will stay together best if you store them in the refrigerator. They will keep for 1 week in an airtight container in the fridge. For freezing, wrap them individually and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.