No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Introduction

No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a quick and delicious treat that requires no oven time. Combining rich chocolate with hearty oats, these bars make a perfect snack or dessert that’s easy to prepare and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine peanut butter, honey, and butter. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and melted.
2. Step 2: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Add rolled oats and mix well until all oats are fully coated.
3. Step 3: Press the oat mixture evenly into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan using the back of a spoon or spatula.
4. Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the melted chocolate over the oat layer and spread evenly.
6. Step 6: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is set and the bars are firm.
7. Step 7: Once firm, cut into squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Tips & Variations

• Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as an alternative to peanut butter for a different flavor or to accommodate allergies.
• Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the oat mixture for extra texture and taste.
• For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup and use a dairy-free butter option.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together better.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To enjoy, simply remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before eating. These bars can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may be softer and less chewy compared to rolled oats.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated?

Yes, refrigeration helps the bars set properly and keeps them firm. They may become too soft at room temperature.

No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars Recipe

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4.5 from 139 reviews

These No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a quick, easy, and delicious treat perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without turning on the oven. Made with simple ingredients like oats, cocoa powder, peanut butter, and honey, they combine rich chocolate flavor with wholesome oats for a chewy and satisfying snack. Ideal for a grab-and-go breakfast or an afternoon energy boost, these bars require no baking and come together in just about 15 minutes.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes plus chilling time
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir well to distribute the cocoa evenly among the oats.
3. Heat Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey together. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and well combined—do not boil.
4. Combine Mixtures: Remove the peanut butter and honey mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until all oats are coated and the mixture is sticky and uniform.
5. Press Into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Using a spatula or your hands, press it down firmly and evenly to ensure the bars hold together well.
6. Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm enough to cut.
7. Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the mixture out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into desired bar shapes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Notes

• For a nut-free option, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter.
• You can add a handful of chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter bar, increase honey amount slightly to 1 cup.
• Ensure the mixture is well pressed into the pan to avoid crumbling bars.
• Room temperature will soften bars; keep refrigerated for best texture.

Keywords: no bake bars, chocolate oatmeal bars, healthy snack, peanut butter bars, easy no bake dessert