The holiday season calls for easy, comforting treats that can be made with minimal fuss yet deliver maximum flavor. These No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars are just the ticket! With wholesome rolled oats, rich dark chocolate, and a hint of cinnamon, each bite brings together the warmth of the season in a delectable, chewy bar. Perfect for sharing, these bars have a delightful crunch and a touch of sweetness that makes them a hit with both kids and adults. ๐
There’s nothing quite like the smell of melting chocolate and peanut butter wafting through the kitchen, and this recipe keeps things simple by ditching the oven. Whether youโre prepping goodies for a holiday gathering or simply looking for a cozy winter treat, these no-bake bars are a fantastic choice. Plus, theyโre ready to pop in the fridge in just a few minutesโideal for last-minute holiday preparations! โ๏ธ
With a festive drizzle of chocolate over the top, these oat bars also look lovely on a Christmas dessert platter. Serve them up as a healthier holiday snack or wrap them in festive cellophane for a thoughtful homemade gift. Enjoy these bars with a warm mug of cocoa or coffee, and let the holiday magic begin! โจ๐ช
๐ No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe ๐ซ
Servings: 16
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Calories per Serving: Approximately 160
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ยฝ cup packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups rolled oats
- ยฝ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ยผ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% or higher for a richer flavor)
- ยพ cup chunky peanut butter (or almond butter for a twist)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dish: Line an 8-inch-by-8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Set aside.
- Cook the Oats: In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Add oats, cinnamon, and salt, stirring constantly for 4 to 5 minutes until well combined and fragrant.
- Layer the Mixture: Pour half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, pressing down firmly with the back of a spoon or spatula.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and peanut butter. Microwave on high in 40-second increments, stirring between each, until fully melted and combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour ยพ of the melted chocolate mixture over the pressed oats in the baking dish, reserving about ยผ cup for drizzling. Spread the remaining oat mixture evenly on top, then drizzle the reserved chocolate mixture over the top layer.
- Chill and Set: Place the dish in the refrigerator for 4 hours, or until fully set. Once set, lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang, and cut them into 16 squares.
๐ Notes & Variations
- Festive Toppings: Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies or a dusting of coconut flakes before chilling for a holiday touch.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to make these bars school-friendly.
- Healthier Alternative: Try substituting half the butter with coconut oil and using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a healthier twist.
These No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars are a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings, treat bags, or simply as a comforting snack to enjoy throughout the festive season! ๐