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. 🎉
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 you’re prepping goodies for a holiday gathering or simply looking for a cozy winter treat, these no-bake bars are a fantastic choice. Plus, they’re ready to pop in the fridge in just a few minutes—ideal for last-minute holiday preparations! ❄️
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! ✨🍪
🎅 No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars Recipe 🍫
Servings: 16
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 4 hours
Calories per Serving: Approximately 160
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
- 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 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.
- 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 & 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! 🎄