No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars
These quick and easy bars feature a buttery, sweet oat base with a crumbly topping, sandwiching a rich layer of melted chocolate and peanut butter.
Ingredients:
- Butter – 1 cup
- Packed brown sugar – 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
- Quick-cooking oats – 3 cups
- Semisweet chocolate chips – 1 cup
- Peanut butter – 1/2 cup
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan: Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan.
2. Cook the Oats: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup butter. Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Add 3 cups quick-cooking oats and cook over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring until the mixture is well combined and slightly toasted.
3. Press the Base: Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Reserve the remaining half for the topping.
4. Make the Filling: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1 cup chocolate chips with 1/2 cup peanut butter, stirring constantly until smooth. Spread evenly over the oat base.
5. Add the Topping: Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the chocolate layer, pressing gently (do not press too hard).
6. Chill & Serve: Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours or overnight until set. Let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting into squares and serving.
