Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Granola Bars
Sweet, salty, and just the right amount of crunch, these bars are the snack that vanishes before the week is over. Think Reese’s meets a granola bar, with a high-protein twist that makes them just as functional as they are fun. I first whipped these up when I was craving something a little indulgent but still wanted that boost of fuel to power through the afternoon slump… and wow. They taste like dessert but act like a smart snack.
The best part? No baking, minimal mess, and kid-approved (husband, too). If you’ve got a jar of peanut butter, a handful of pretzels, and 15 minutes, you’re basically halfway there. These live in my fridge on repeat, especially during busy weeks when I need something grab-and-go that still feels like a treat.
This post may contain affiliate links, please read our privacy policy for details.
Recipe Tips
Press firmly: Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to really compact the mixture into the pan—this helps the bars hold together once sliced.
Blend the cottage cheese well: It should be smooth and creamy (almost yogurt-like) before mixing in. I use a small blender or food processor.
Melt chocolate gently: Either in the microwave in 20-second intervals or using a double boiler. Stir between each to avoid seizing.
Use parchment paper: Makes it way easier to lift out the bars before slicing.
Customize toppings: Add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or crushed pretzels on top before chilling for extra texture.
Ingredient Swaps:
No cottage cheese ? Use an extra 2–3 tablespoons of peanut butter or try full-fat Greek yogurt for a creamy binder.
Nut-free ? Use sunflower seed butter or oat butter to keep it allergy-friendly.
No pretzels ? Crushed graham crackers or crispy rice cereal also work great for crunch.
No oats ? Sub half oats for puffed rice or a high-protein cereal for a more airy texture.
Lower sugar ? Use monk fruit maple syrup or a stevia-sweetened alternative to reduce overall sugar.
Meal Prep Tips: These bars are meal prep gold. I like to wrap them individually in parchment or pop them into small reusable containers so they’re ready to toss into lunch boxes or grab between meetings.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw for a few minutes before eating or enjoy frozen for an extra chewy treat.
more snacks to try:
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Granola Bars
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ cup natural peanut butter
- ? cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup crushed pretzels
- ¼ cup blended cottage cheese
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips for dipping or drizzling
- Optional: flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 pan with parchment.
- Mix oats, peanut butter, maple, pretzels, cottage cheese, vanilla, and salt.
- Press into pan and chill for 1 hour.
- Slice into bars, dip or drizzle with melted chocolate, and chill again.
