Creating No-Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars is as simple as following these steps:

1. Prepare Your Pan: Line an 8×8-inch square dish with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars later.
2. Combine Oats and Cocoa: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure the cocoa is evenly distributed.
3. Mix Peanut Butter: In a separate bowl, stir together the natural peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the peanut butter mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined. Make sure all the oats are coated with the mixture.
5. Add Chocolate Chips: If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
6. Press Mixture: Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish. Use a spatula or your hands to press it down firmly and evenly into the dish.
7. Chill: Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill for about 1 hour, or until the mixture is set and firm.
8. Cut into Bars: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper and place on a cutting board. Cut into square or rectangular bars as desired.

Adhering to these steps ensures that you create these delicious bars effortlessly!