Peanut Butter Raisin Bars
Sweet and nutty Peanut Butter Raisin Bars combine crunchy cereal with chewy raisins and creamy peanut butter, making a satisfying treat perfect for snack time or lunchboxes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, over medium heat, stir together brown sugar and corn syrup until sugar dissolves and mixture is warm.
- Remove from heat, and blend in peanut butter.
- Stir in crushed cereal and raisins until well coated.
- Press the mixture into a lightly greased 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Cool until firm; then cut into 24 bars.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, try using natural peanut butter instead of chunky. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute honey for corn syrup and use whole grain cereal instead of Shredded Wheat. Make sure to crush the cereal finely for better binding, and consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter Raisin Bars make a great snack on their own, but you can also serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with Lemon-Cream Tea Loaf. For a nutritious breakfast option, crumble them over yogurt or add them to a smoothie bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly to soften.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Raisin Bars contains roughly 107 calories, with 2g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use smooth peanut butter instead of chunky?
Yes, you can definitely use smooth peanut butter if you prefer a creamier texture. The bars will still hold together well, and the flavor will remain deliciously rich. Just remember that the texture will be different, lacking the crunch from the chunky pieces.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you don't have raisins, you can use other dried fruits like chopped dates, cranberries, or apricots. This will add a different flavor profile, but it will still work well in the recipe. Make sure to chop larger fruits into smaller pieces for even distribution.
How do I know when the bars are firm enough to cut?
The bars are ready to cut when they've cooled completely and feel firm to the touch. If they're still warm or soft, allow them to cool for a bit longer. You can also refrigerate them for a quick set before cutting into bars.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).