Description
These No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie Bars combine wholesome rolled oats with rich peanut butter and cocoa for a delicious, easy-to-make treat that requires no baking. Sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup, and topped with a smooth chocolate layer, these bars are perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), cocoa powder, and salt. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Vanilla and Oats: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Immediately add the rolled oats and mix thoroughly until all oats are fully coated with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture.
- Press into a Pan: Transfer the oat mixture into a lined 8×8-inch baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly to create a compact base layer.
- Make the Chocolate Topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips with the unsalted butter and optional tablespoon of peanut butter. Stir continuously until the chocolate topping is smooth and glossy.
- Spread Chocolate Topping: Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the pressed oat base, smoothing with a spatula to ensure full coverage.
- Chill and Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour or until the bars are firm and the topping is set.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, remove from refrigerator, lift the bars out using the lining, cut into 16 squares, and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute almond butter or sunflower butter for peanut butter if desired.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
- For gluten-free bars, ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Adding a tablespoon of peanut butter to the chocolate topping enhances flavor and texture.
