These No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are the ultimate treat for chocolate and peanut butter lovers. With a rich, gooey chocolate-peanut butter filling sandwiched between two layers of chewy oatmeal goodness, these bars are as easy to make as they are delicious. No oven required—just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a decadent dessert that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Chill Time
- 2–3 hours (or overnight)
Total Time
- 2 hours 15 minutes (plus chilling)
Servings
- 12–16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter
- ½ cup brown sugar , packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup peanut butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily. (You can use a 9×13-inch dish if you prefer thinner bars.) Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Oat Mixture
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat , stirring occasionally, until the butter is fully melted and the sugar has dissolved.
- Stir in the vanilla extract , then mix in the rolled oats until well combined.
- Cook the mixture over low heat for 3–4 minutes , stirring constantly, until the ingredients are well blended and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Layer the Crust
- Pour half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to spread it evenly across the bottom of the dish, pressing it down firmly to form the crust layer. Reserve the remaining oat mixture for the top layer.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate-Peanut Butter Filling
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter . Microwave in 30-second intervals , stirring between each interval, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt the mixture using a double boiler.
- Reserve about ¼ cup of the chocolate mixture for drizzling later.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
- Pour the remaining melted chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the oat crust in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the chocolate layer, gently pressing it down to adhere.
- Drizzle the reserved ¼ cup chocolate mixture over the top for a decorative finish.
Step 6: Chill and Set
- Refrigerate the bars for 2–3 hours (or overnight) until firm and set.
- Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the dish. Cut into squares or rectangles for serving.
Pro Tips
- Texture Control: For firmer bars, chill them longer or store them in the refrigerator after cutting.
- Customization: Add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months . Let frozen bars thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Peanut Butter Swap: Use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut/seed butter alternative for a different twist.
Nutrition Facts (Per Bar, based on 16 bars)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fats: 15g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 14g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a dream come true for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and peanut butter. The chewy oat layers provide the perfect balance to the rich, creamy filling, while the no-bake method makes them quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack, a party dessert, or a treat to share with friends, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ready to indulge in a no-bake masterpiece? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dessert that’s rich, chewy, and utterly irresistible—it’s chocolatey goodness made simple!
