Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
2. 2
   Combine the eggs, peanut butter, and pure maple syrup (and vanilla extract if adding) in a large bowl and mix until everything is well combined. Note: if your peanut butter is cold or seems firm, microwave it for 20 to 30 seconds to help with the mixing process.
3. 3
   Add the rolled oats, baking soda, ground cinnamon and sea salt (dry ingredients) to the mixing bowl and mix until everything is combined and a thick dough forms.
4. 4
   Stir in the chocolate chips (if adding).
5. 5
   Transfer the peanut butter oatmeal cookie dough to the prepared baking pan and spread it into an even layer. If you’d like, sprinkle the top with extra chocolate chips and/or flaky sea salt.
6. 6
   Bake on the center rack of the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the bars have set up and the edges are slightly golden brown.
7. 7
   Allow the peanut butter chocolate chip bars to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
8. 8
   You can wrap the baking pan in plastic wrap and leave the bars on the counter for up to 2 days.