Easy One-Bowl No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars Recipe

Looking for a quick, simple, and delicious dessert that requires no baking? These one-bowl no-bake chocolate oatmeal bars are the perfect solution! Chewy oats are combined with rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter for a satisfying treat that comes together in minutes. This easy recipe is ideal for busy bakers and anyone craving a sweet, no-fuss snack.

Yields: 12-16 bars

Prep time: 15 minutes

Chill time: 2-3 hours

Equipment:

• 8×8 or 9×9 inch square baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large saucepan
• Spatula

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup (6 ounces) semi-sweet chocolate chips  
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prep for Success: Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Melt the Base: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, cocoa powder, and salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil and cook for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. This boiling step is crucial for the bars to set properly.
3. Chocolate Peanut Butter Fusion: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and creamy peanut butter. Stir until everything is melted and smooth, creating a rich chocolatey base.
4. Oats Join the Party: Stir in the quick-cooking oats and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until all the oats are evenly coated in the chocolate mixture.
5. Press and Form: Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking pan. Press down firmly and evenly with a spatula to create a solid layer.
6. Chill for Perfection: Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until the bars are firm enough to slice.
7. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares or bars of your desired size. Enjoy this easy and delicious no-bake treat!

Tips for Perfect No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars:

• Use Quick Oats: For the best chewy texture, make sure to use quick-cooking oats, not rolled oats.
• Don’t Skip the Boil: The one-minute boil helps the sugars dissolve properly and ensures the bars set well.
• Melt Chocolate Smoothly: Stir the chocolate and peanut butter continuously until completely melted and smooth for an even consistency.
• Press Firmly: Press the oat mixture firmly into the pan for well-shaped bars.
• Chill Thoroughly: Allow ample chilling time for the bars to firm up before slicing.
• Customize Your Bars: Feel free to add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit to the oat mixture for extra flavor and texture.

These easy one-bowl no-bake chocolate oatmeal bars are a simple and satisfying dessert that everyone will love. Perfect for a quick treat or a lunchbox addition!