Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars are the kind of treat that can brighten any day. Imagine crunching into a warm, chewy bar full of chocolatey goodness, with oats contributing a hearty bite. These bars are super easy to whip up, and that makes them perfect for any occasion, whether you need a quick snack or a sweet addition to a potluck. Plus, most of the ingredients are pantry staples, so you probably have everything you need right now.

The best part? You can easily customize these bars to fit your taste. Want to throw in some nuts for added crunch? Go for it! Prefer your bars a bit sweeter or less sweet? There’s room for adjustment. We’re making something fun together, so grab your baking supplies, and let’s get started on these delightful Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars!

Why This Recipe Works

These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars showcase the ultimate balance of chewy and soft textures. They’re not too dry or overly moist, making them just right for every bite. The combination of oats and chocolate creates a rich flavor that keeps you coming back for more. You’ll appreciate how the oats add heartiness, while the chocolate chips provide just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, if you toss in your favorite mix-ins, it elevates the flavor profile even further.

Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars

You’ll find these bars fit perfectly into any occasion. They make an ideal snack for kids heading to school or adults needing a pick-me-up during a busy workday. Not to mention, they shine at parties or potlucks, where they’re sure to grab attention. They’re also easy to adapt to fit your personal preferences or dietary needs.

Thinking about making these for someone who loves almond flavor? Just toss in some almond extract alongside the vanilla! Alternatively, if you want a gluten-free version, simply switch out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. The possibilities are endless, making these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars a favorite for everyone.

Ingredients

• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (125 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 8 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted and cooled slightly (1 stick)
• 1 cup lightly packed Brown Sugar (200 grams)
• 1 large Egg
• 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1 cup Old Fashioned / Rolled Oats
• 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
• 1/2 cup M&Ms

Preparing the Home for Baking

Preheat the Oven

First things first, set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Preheating the oven helps ensure even baking, so don’t skip this step.

Prepare the Pan

While the oven heats up, grab an 8×8 metal baking pan. Line it with parchment paper to make removal easier later, or give it a light coat of nonstick cooking spray. You want those bars to slide right out!

Mixing the Ingredients

Combine Dry Ingredients

Now, in a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This mixture is essential for creating the right texture. Once it’s well combined, set it aside for now.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a larger bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar together until smooth. You should see a delightful caramel color forming—just think of the sweetness! Next, add your egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is perfectly blended.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Here comes the fun part. Gently pour the dry ingredients over your wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir everything together. Mix slowly until no dry spots remain. Just a note: Avoid stirring too much to keep those bars nice and soft.

Add Oats and Chips

Time to fold in the oats, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and M&Ms. You want an even distribution, so take your time with this step. It’s all about the chocolate happiness, right?

Baking the Bars

Pour Batter into the Pan

Transfer that delicious mixture to your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom, making sure it fills every corner. You can sprinkle any extra M&Ms or chocolate chips on top for a fun finishing touch.

Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the oven and let them bake for about 24 to 28 minutes. Look for those lightly browned edges. If you prefer softer bars, lean towards the lower baking time. For firmer bars, just give them a few extra minutes.

Cooling and Serving

Let Cool

Once they’re out of the oven, let the bars cool in the pan until you can easily lift them out. This cooling phase lets the texture settle and makes slicing easier.

Slice and Enjoy

After cooling, slice the bars into squares. Serve and watch your friends and family enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.

Storage Tips

Store your Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep for up to 3 days. If you want to make them last longer, consider popping them in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that feels like a celebration. Even better, enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea as a delightful afternoon snack.

Variations

Feel free to customize! Swap out the chocolate chips for butterscotch chips, or toss in some nuts for crunch. You could also experiment with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture.

Tips for Success

• Make sure your butter has cooled slightly before adding it to the mix to avoid cooking the egg.
• Mix gently to maintain the soft texture you want in these bars.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy a bar with a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent dessert, or contrast it with fresh fruit like berries for a refreshing balance.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
No, quick oats may change the final texture. Rolled oats work best for this recipe.

2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Check for lightly browned edges and a firm center. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs to indicate they’re done.

3. Can I freeze these oatmeal chocolate chip bars?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months for quick access later.

4. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Just replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll have a tasty gluten-free treat.

5. How can I make these bars less sweet?
Simply reduce the sugar or use unsweetened chocolate chips to lower the sweetness.

These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars are more than just a snack; they’re a sweet embrace in bar form. Ideal for any gathering or a cozy night in, they’re bound to please. Enjoy baking, and even more so, enjoy each bite!

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