Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors. They are easy to make and perfect for snacking or dessert!
Why Make This Recipe
These bars are not only delicious but also quick to prepare. They are a fantastic way to use those old-fashioned oats you have in your pantry while satisfying your sweet tooth. Plus, they are great for sharing with family and friends!
How to Make Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
Making Chocolate Oatmeal Bars is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, melted butter, brown sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Press half of this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, saving the other half for later.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter, stirring until it is smooth.
- Pour this mixture over the oat layer in the baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Crumble the reserved oat mixture on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
How to Serve Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
These bars are delicious on their own but can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a great dessert after dinner or a sweet snack for any time of the day. Enjoy with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage!
How to Store Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
To keep your Chocolate Oatmeal Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, keeping them good for up to two weeks.
Tips to Make Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting; this helps them hold their shape.
- You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Try using different nut butters for a unique flavor twist.
Variation
Feel free to add in some nuts or dried fruits to the oat mixture for added texture and flavor. You can also substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different taste!
FAQs
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be different.
Q: Can I freeze Chocolate Oatmeal Bars?
A: Absolutely! Just wrap them well and store them in the freezer for up to three months.
Q: How can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Use certified gluten-free oats to make your Chocolate Oatmeal Bars gluten-free.