No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
These No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a quick, budget-friendly dessert that combines chewy oats, rich chocolate, and creamy peanut butter for a crowd-pleasing treat.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup butter (softened for easy mixing) Softened for easy mixing.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed tight) Packed tightly for accurate measurement.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth and flavor.
- 3 cups rolled oats Quick oats can be used, but rolled oats are preferred for texture.
For the Filling
- 1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Instructions
Preparation
- Grab an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking dish and line it with parchment paper.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter alongside the brown sugar, stirring until combined.
- Add in the vanilla extract and rolled oats, stirring to mix and cook for 3 to 4 minutes over low heat.
- Take half of the oat mixture and pour it into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly to create a solid base.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter until smooth, then stir until creamy.
- Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the oat base, saving about 1/4 cup for drizzling on top later.
- Spread the reserved oat mixture over the chocolate layer and drizzle the remaining chocolate-peanut butter mixture on top.
- Chill in the fridge for 2 to 3 hours or overnight.
- Allow to warm up slightly at room temperature before cutting into squares.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before enjoying.