No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Posted on October 28, 2025

🖋️ Written by Emma

why make this recipe

No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a perfect treat for those who love chocolate and oats. They are easy to make and require no baking, making them a great choice for a quick snack or dessert. These bars are chewy, sweet, and packed with flavor. Plus, they are a wonderful option for anyone looking for a simple yet satisfying treat.

how to make No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter

Directions:

Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper and set aside. The overhang will help lift the bars out once they are set.
Melt the butter and brown sugar in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix in the rolled oats and cook over low heat for 3 to 4 minutes, or until everything is well combined.
Pour half of this oat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly and pressing it down firmly.
Set the other half of the mixture aside for the second layer.
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter and chocolate chips together. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the oat layer in the baking dish, leaving about 1/4 cup for drizzling later. Spread it evenly.
Gently pour the remaining oat mixture on top of the chocolate layer. Press it in slightly.
Drizzle the reserved chocolate mixture over the top.
Refrigerate the bars for 2 to 3 hours or overnight. Before cutting, let them come to room temperature.

Note: The texture of these bars can vary based on how long you boil the sugar mixture. If it doesn’t boil long enough, the bars may be too soft; if you boil it too long, they could end up dry.

how to serve No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Serve these bars at room temperature. You can cut them into squares or rectangles according to your preference. They make a delightful treat for any occasion, from parties to school lunches.

how to store No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about a week, but they are best enjoyed within the first few days for maximum freshness.

tips to make No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Use a good quality chocolate for melting, as it will enhance the flavor.
Make sure to press the oat mixture firmly in the baking dish to create a solid base.
If you like, add nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and taste.

variation

You can replace peanut butter with almond butter or sun butter for a different flavor. You can also add spices like cinnamon for an extra kick.

FAQs

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Rolled oats give a chewier consistency.

Q: Do I need to cook the oats?
A: No, the oats do not need to be cooked separately; they will soften as they mix with the melted butter and sugar.

Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap each bar individually and store them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to three months in the freezer.