Description
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a quick and easy dessert featuring a buttery oat base layered with rich peanut butter and chocolate. These bars set in the refrigerator, requiring no baking, making them perfect for a simple, delicious treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Base and Oat Mixture
- 1 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups rolled oats
Chocolate Layer
- 1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Line an 8-inch or 9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier after chilling.
- Melt Butter and Sugar: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar, melting and stirring until the mixture is smooth. Then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Add Oats: Stir in the rolled oats and cook on low heat for 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring the oats are evenly coated and slightly warmed.
- Form Base Layer: Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the prepared baking dish to create the base layer for the bars.
- Melt Chocolate and Peanut Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together the peanut butter and chocolate chips until smooth, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the oat base layer, reserving some for drizzling.
- Top Layer and Drizzle: Spread the remaining oat mixture evenly over the chocolate layer, then drizzle the reserved chocolate over the top for decoration.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 to 3 hours to allow them to firm up before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of bars from the dish.
- Ensure to press the oat mixture firmly to hold the bars together well.
- For cleaner cuts, chill the bars overnight.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- You can substitute almond butter or another nut butter for peanut butter if preferred.
