No-bake chocolate oat bars are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that requires minimal effort and no oven time. These bars typically consist of a mixture of rolled oats, chocolate, nut butter, and sweeteners. Here’s a simple recipe to make these delightful no-bake bars:
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter or almond butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter or almond butter
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
- 1/4 cup dried fruits (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
- Prepare a Pan: Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars later. This will make it easier to lift and cut the bars once they’ve set.
- Make the Base: In a large microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop in a saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If using the microwave, heat the mixture in 20-30 second increments, stirring each time, until the chocolate and peanut butter are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. If using the stovetop, melt everything together over low heat, stirring continuously.
- Combine with Oats: Add the rolled oats to the melted chocolate mixture. If you’re adding nuts, dried fruits, or shredded coconut, add them at this stage as well. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Press into Pan: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it firmly and evenly into the pan.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt the chocolate chips and peanut butter (or almond butter) for the topping using the same method as before.
- Top the Bars: Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the oat base and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the bars set for at least 2-3 hours, or until firm.
- Cut and Serve: Once the bars have set, use the parchment paper overhangs to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or bars of your desired size.
- Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your no-bake chocolate oat bars! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
These no-bake chocolate oat bars are perfect for a quick sweet treat, a snack, or a dessert option when you don’t want to turn on the oven. You can customize them by adding your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or other mix-ins to suit your taste.
