No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a simple, sweet, and satisfying treat, these No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are the perfect option. Packed with oats, peanut butter, and a rich chocolate layer, these bars make an excellent snack or dessert. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, require no oven, and can be made in just a few steps. These bars are naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like chopped nuts or seeds.

Ingredients

  • Old-Fashioned Oats: 2 1/2 cups (240 g)
  • Peanut Butter (or almond butter): 1/2 cup (125 g)
  • Honey or Maple Syrup: 1/3 cup (80 ml)
  • Coconut Oil: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
  • Dark Chocolate Chips: 1 cup (175 g)
  • Cocoa Powder: 2 tablespoons (10 g)
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
  • Salt: A pinch
  • Chopped Nuts or Seeds (optional): 1/4 cup (30 g)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of peanut butter, 1/3 cup of honey or maple syrup, and 1/4 cup of coconut oil. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Continue stirring until the mixture is completely smooth and all the ingredients are well-combined. This step forms the delicious base that holds the oats together.

Once the mixture is smooth, remove from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed. The cocoa powder will deepen the chocolate flavor, and the vanilla extract enhances the sweetness of the bars.

2. Mix in the Oats

Once your base mixture is ready, gradually fold in 2 1/2 cups of old-fashioned oats. If you want to add extra crunch, mix in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts or seeds at this stage. Make sure the oats (and any optional nuts or seeds) are fully coated with the chocolate mixture. This creates the chewy, flavorful texture that forms the foundation of these bars.

3. Press into a Pan

Prepare an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they’ve set. Press the oat mixture evenly into the lined pan using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Ensure that the mixture is spread out in an even layer and tightly packed down, so the bars hold together well.

4. Prepare the Chocolate Layer

For the decadent chocolate topping, melt 1 cup of dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. If using a microwave, heat the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth. Once melted, pour the chocolate over the pressed oat mixture, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.

5. Chill

Place the pan in the fridge and let the bars chill for 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm and the bars have fully set. This chilling process allows the bars to solidify, making them easy to cut and serve.

6. Cut and Serve

Once the bars have set, remove the pan from the fridge. Lift the parchment paper out of the pan and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve them chilled for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a slightly softer bite.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This recipe makes 12 servings.

  • Calories: 270 kcal
  • Total Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 60mg
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 13g
  • Protein: 6g

Customization Tips

  • Swap nut butters: You can easily substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
  • Add texture: Try mixing in other ingredients like dried fruits (cranberries, raisins) or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
  • Choose your sweetener: Whether you prefer the rich flavor of honey or the more subtle sweetness of maple syrup, both work well in this recipe. You can even use agave or brown rice syrup for a different taste.

Storage Tips

These no-bake chocolate oatmeal bars are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep fresh for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead snack or dessert. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just let them thaw for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of day. Serve them as a quick grab-and-go breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or a healthier dessert option after dinner. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea, or enjoy them on their own for a deliciously satisfying treat.

Why You’ll Love These No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

  • No baking required: Perfect for when you don’t want to turn on the oven!
  • Naturally sweetened: Made with honey or maple syrup, these bars are free from refined sugars.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to make these bars your own.
  • Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious oatmeal bars ready to enjoy.

These No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are the perfect balance of chewy oats, rich chocolate, and a touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup. Whether you’re looking for a snack to fuel your day or a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!