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🎄No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars: A Holiday Treat to Savor 🎅🍫

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. 🎉

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter

  • ½ cup packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option)

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

  • 3 cups rolled oats

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips (70% or higher for a richer flavor)

  • ¾ cup chunky peanut butter (or almond butter for a twist)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dish: Line an 8-inch-by-8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Set aside.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Assemble the Bars: Pour ¾ of the melted chocolate mixture over the pressed oats in the baking dish, reserving about ¼ cup for drizzling. Spread the remaining oat mixture evenly on top, then drizzle the reserved chocolate mixture over the top layer.

  6. 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.

Notes

🎄 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! 🎄

  • Author: niold.com