No Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
Indulge in No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
Just because you’re tired of all that holiday cooking and baking doesn’t mean you’re tired of sweet treats! And trying to back away from the sugary sweets doesn’t mean you have to go cold-turkey on dessert, either. The perfect answer to both dilemmas? Our No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars!
Now, we won’t claim that these bars are some sort of health treat, but you can feel better about eating them than you did all those cookies and trifles from Christmas. The oats give them a delicious crunch, and the chocolate drizzle gives them the perfect amount of sweetness. Even better? All you need to do is mix them up, stick them in the fridge, and enjoy. Let us demonstrate this simple sweet, then read on for the full recipe so you can try them yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, combining the hearty goodness of oats with the rich, creamy taste of chocolate and peanut butter. It’s quick, easy, and requires no baking, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- A 9×9 inch square pan
- A large saucepan
- A small heavy saucepan
- A mixing spoon
- A knife or spoon for spreading
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups quick cooking oats
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Grease a 9×9 inch square pan.
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and vanilla.
- Mix in the oats. Cook over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until ingredients are well blended.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Reserve the other half for topping.
- Meanwhile, melt chocolate chips and peanut butter in a small heavy saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
- Pour the chocolate mixture over the crust in the pan, and spread evenly with a knife or the back of a spoon.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the chocolate layer, pressing in gently.
- Cover, and refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours or overnight.
- Bring to room temperature before cutting into bars.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the butter and sugar are well combined before adding the oats for a smoother texture.
- Press the oat mixture firmly into the pan to form a solid base.
- Allow sufficient chilling time for the bars to set properly.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding nuts or raisins to the oat mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer chocolate taste.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact values may vary, each serving typically contains:
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick cooking oats?
Yes, but the texture might be chewier. Quick oats are recommended for a smoother bar.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion
Our No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars are an easy, satisfying treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the fuss of baking. We hope you enjoy making and eating these delightful bars as much as we do! Give them a try and let us know how yours turn out in the comments below!
