Making Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars is easy when you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Combine Oats and Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until the mixture is well combined.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
6. Spread Mixture in Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure an even layer.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and set aside to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Cut into Bars: Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
10. Optional Topping: Add any additional toppings like chocolate chips or nuts if desired.

By following these steps, you’ll have scrumptious chocolate peanut butter oatmeal bars that are sure to impress.