Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars: The Ultimate Recipe for a Delicious Treat

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the wholesome goodness of oats with the rich, indulgent flavor of chocolate. As a fan of both oatmeal and chocolate, I can confidently say that these bars are a match made in dessert heaven. Originating from the classic cookie recipe, these bars have evolved into a convenient and portable snack that is loved by many. The chewy texture of the oats combined with the melty chocolate chips creates a satisfying bite that is hard to resist.

People adore Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars not just for their taste, but also for their versatility. They make for a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or a sweet ending to any meal. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them a favorite in my kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply treating yourself, these bars are sure to please everyone. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Preparing the Batter

Let’s get started on these delicious Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars! First, I like to preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is hot and ready for our bars once we finish mixing the batter.

1. In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. I use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air into the batter, making the bars nice and chewy.
2. Next, I add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, I pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is well combined. The batter should be smooth and creamy at this point.
3. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.
4. Gradually, I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. I make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars.
5. Now, it’s time to fold in the rolled oats. I use a spatula to gently mix them into the batter until they are evenly distributed. The oats give the bars their hearty texture.
6. Finally, I add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and, if I’m feeling adventurous, the chopped nuts. I fold these in gently, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout the batter.

Preparing the Baking Pan

Before we move on to baking, I like to prepare my baking pan. I usually use a 9×13 inch baking dish for these bars.

1. I start by greasing the pan with a little butter or non-stick cooking spray. This helps to ensure that the bars don’t stick to the pan.
2. For an extra precaution, I line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This makes it super easy to lift the bars out once they are baked and cooled.

Baking the Bars

Now that our batter is ready and the pan is prepared, it’s time to bake these delicious bars!

1. I pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. I make sure to smooth the top so that the bars bake evenly.
2. Once the oven is preheated, I place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. I keep an eye on them, and I know they’re done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
3. After baking, I remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the bars to set a bit before I try to cut them.

Assembling and Serving

Once the bars have cooled slightly, it’s time to cut and serve!

1. Using the parchment paper overhang, I carefully lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board.
2. I use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on my preference. I usually get about 24 bars from this recipe, but you can cut them smaller or larger based on your liking.
3. These bars are delicious served warm, but they also store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If I want to keep them

Conclusion:

In summary, these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a deliciously satisfying treat that balances health and indulgence perfectly. The combination of hearty oats and rich chocolate creates a delightful texture and flavor that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, or enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost. I encourage you to give these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars a try and experience the joy they bring to your kitchen. Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, variations, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for these bars together!

Print