Why Make This Recipe

Fudgy Oatmeal Bars are a perfect treat for anyone who loves a rich and chocolatey snack. With a chewy texture from the oats and a fudgy bite from the cocoa powder, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. They are easy to make, delicious, and great for sharing with family and friends. Plus, they use simple ingredients that you may already have at home!

How to Make Fudgy Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, cocoa powder, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, mix melted butter and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

How to Serve Fudgy Oatmeal Bars

These bars are great as a dessert or a snack. You can serve them warm or at room temperature. You may enjoy them plain or with a scoop of ice cream on top for a special treat. They also go well with a glass of milk or coffee.

How to Store Fudgy Oatmeal Bars

To store your Fudgy Oatmeal Bars, place them in an airtight container. They can sit at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For even longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.

Tips to Make Fudgy Oatmeal Bars

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid them falling apart.
Experiment by adding nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.

Variation

If you want to add a twist to your Fudgy Oatmeal Bars, try using peanut butter chips or white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips. You could also add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the bars may be slightly different. Rolled oats give a chewier texture.

2. How can I make these bars healthier?
You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute. Adding more oats and using whole wheat flour instead of regular flour can also make them healthier.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! If you double the recipe, just use a larger baking pan or bake them in batches. Make sure to adjust the baking time as needed.