Hey y'all! If you're craving a sweet treat that's quick, incredibly easy, and oh-so-delicious, these No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are about to become your new favorite. Packed with rich chocolate flavor, chewy oats, and a hint of peanut butter, they’re perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or just a cozy night in. Plus, there’s no oven required! Ready to whip up these irresistible bars in minutes? Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars Recipe
- Zero baking required, which means less time in the kitchen and no heating up the house.
- Simple pantry staples and quick prep time make this the ultimate easy dessert.
- Rich, fudgy chocolate meets wholesome oats for a perfect chewy texture.
- Gluten-free and easily adaptable for dietary needs.
- Great for parties, family snacks, or as a grab-and-go breakfast!
Ingredients for No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 & ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Directions for No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
Step 2: Melt the Base Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter and peanut butter. Stir frequently until melted and smooth, about 2–3 minutes. Add the honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and salt, stirring until fully combined and heated through.
Step 3: Add the Oats
Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the rolled oats until fully coated with the wet mixture.
Step 4: Press the Oat Mixture
Pour approximately two-thirds of the oat mixture into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and evenly. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set slightly.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Layer
Place chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth (about 1–2 minutes total). Carefully spread melted chocolate over the chilled oat base.
Step 6: Top and Chill
Dollop the remaining oat mixture on top. Gently press down and smooth out, then refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until firm and set.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Remove bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares or bars, then enjoy!
Notes for Perfect No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
- If you prefer a softer texture, reduce the chill time by 30 minutes; for firmer bars, chill overnight.
- Feel free to use quick oats, though the texture will be slightly less chewy. For more information on oats, check out this oats guide.
- Swap in almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars Variations
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Protein Boost: Stir in 2 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder with the oats.
- Fruity: Mix in a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for a tart twist.
Required Equipment
- 8x8-inch square baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl
Storage Instructions for No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
Store these No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For longer storage, freeze bars in a single layer separated by parchment for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Serving and Pairing Ideas for Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or almond milk for a classic treat.
- Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fruit-topped snack.
- Enjoy alongside hot coffee or your favorite tea for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Pro Tips for the Best No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
- Press down the oat layers firmly in the pan to help bars hold together.
- Let the bars chill fully before slicing for clean, neat squares—check out this article on slicing tips.
- For an extra glossy chocolate layer, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil while melting the chocolate chips (read more here).
No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars FAQ
- Can I use instant oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
- Yes, but the bars may be slightly softer and less chewy. Old-fashioned oats provide the best texture.
- How do I make these bars vegan?
- Use dairy-free butter, plant-based chocolate chips, and maple syrup instead of honey to make them entirely vegan.
- Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely! Use a 9x13-inch pan and double all ingredient amounts for a bigger batch.
Prep & Total Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
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1Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
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2In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, peanut butter, and honey, stirring until smooth.
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3Remove from heat and mix in cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
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4Stir in the rolled oats until evenly coated, then press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
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5Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the oat layer, then top with the remaining oat mixture and press down gently.
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6Chill in the refrigerator for at least 40 minutes or until set. Lift from pan and cut into bars to serve.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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