Aunt Betty swore by this 3 ingredient miracle whenever she needed a quick cookout treat. I never believed it could be this easy until I watched my family devour the whole pan.

6. For the neatest slices, refrigerate the bars a little longer before cutting, then store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Variations & Tips

For a softer bar: If you like a tender, more snack-like bar, do not pack the mixture too tightly into the pan. A gentle press will give you a slightly softer bite.

For a firmer bar: Press the mixture down very firmly and chill it thoroughly before slicing. That little bit of patience gives you cleaner edges and bars that hold together beautifully for travel.

Use old-fashioned oats: Rolled old-fashioned oats give these bars the best hearty texture. Quick oats can work in a pinch, but the bars will be more compact and less pleasantly chewy.

Pantry note: Natural peanut butter can be used, but be sure it is stirred very well first.

If it is too oily or too dry, the bars may not set as evenly as they do with regular creamy peanut butter.