Description

These No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Cookie Bars are an easy, delicious, and healthy treat combining wholesome oats with rich peanut butter and chocolate. Perfect for a quick snack or a satisfying dessert, they require no baking and just a handful of simple ingredients. With a chewy texture and a chocolatey flavor, they’re ideal for those seeking a convenient gluten-free and vegetarian option.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup honey or maple syrup
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup coconut oil or unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-ins

½ cup mini chocolate chips

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the baking dish: Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, unsweetened cocoa powder, and coconut oil. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and just begins to bubble, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt to evenly distribute the flavors.
Mix in oats: Add the rolled oats to the saucepan and mix thoroughly until all oats are fully coated with the chocolate and peanut butter mixture.
Incorporate chocolate chips (optional): Allow the mixture to cool slightly before folding in mini chocolate chips so they do not melt.
Press mixture into pan: Transfer the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to firmly press down and compact the mixture for sturdy bars.
Chill: Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to fully set and firm up.
Serve: Once chilled, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper and cut into 12 individual bars or squares.
Storage: Store the bars in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and freshness. They keep well for up to one week.

Notes

You can substitute quick oats for a softer and chewier texture.
Add shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and variety.
For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil.
Pressing the mixture firmly into the pan is key for sturdy bars that hold together well.
These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 90mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg