Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars: A Cozy Treat for Any Occasion
There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked bar, especially when it’s warm, gooey, and oozing chocolate. As the autumn leaves start to fall and the air turns crisp, I find myself longing for cozy treats that bring a sense of nostalgia and warmth. These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars have a special place in my heart; they remind me of afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, the rich aroma of melting chocolate and the sweet notes of brown sugar wafting through the air.
These bars are the epitome of a comforting, cozy dessert that you’ll want to enjoy with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. Packed with rolled oats and chocolate chips, they strike the perfect balance between chewy and tender. Whether you’re making them for an after-school snack, a potluck, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these bars are sure to be a hit. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, these oatmeal chocolate chip bars come together in under an hour.
- Family-Friendly: With a blend of wholesome oats and rich chocolate, these bars are sure to please kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the mix-ins or add your favorite toppings for a personal twist.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for friends, neighbors, or at a gathering and watch them disappear in no time!
- Nutritious Elements: With oats as a key ingredient, they offer a bit of wholesome goodness that feels guilt-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
Gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup M&Ms (optional)
How to Make Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
Let’s make it together:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and M&Ms (if using) for an extra pop of color and flair.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into bars to ensure they hold their shape.
Fun Ways to Customize It
- Add Nuts: For a bit of crunch, consider folding in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Dried Fruit Delights: Dried cranberries or raisins can add a zesty twist that complements the chocolate.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg will bring an aromatic warmth to your oatmeal bars, making them even cozier.
- Substitute the Sweetness: Try using maple syrup or honey instead of granulated sugar for a deliciously rich flavor profile.
Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Magic: These bars can easily be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. They actually taste better the next day once the flavors meld!
- Slicing Tips: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. For cleaner cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
- Storage Suggestions: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
- Freezing for Later: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to three months!
Nutrition Information per Serving
- Serving size: 1 bar
- Calories: 190
- Carbs: 25g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 90mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! These bars can be made the day before serving. Just store them in an airtight container.
Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in different types of sugar or even add in other mix-ins like butterscotch chips or coconut flakes!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
How long does it last?
In an airtight container, these bars will stay fresh for about three days at room temperature, or you can freeze them for up to three months.
Wrapping It Up
With a golden crust and a gooey, soft center, these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars are not just a treat; they’re a warm hug in dessert form. Perfect for sharing or huddling up with all by yourself, they capture the essence of cozy moments spent with loved ones. Save this recipe to your desserts board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Warm, gooey bars packed with rolled oats and chocolate chips, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup M&Ms (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and M&Ms (if using).
- Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into bars.
Notes
These bars can be made a day in advance and taste better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: oatmeal bars, chocolate chip, desserts, cozy treats, baking