Name: No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

These No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars are a simple, delicious, and wholesome treat. With just a few ingredients, I create chewy, chocolatey bars packed with oats and peanut butter, perfect for a quick snack or energy boost. They come together effortlessly without any oven time and chill to the perfect texture.

Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter)

1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/4 tsp salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the base: In a medium saucepan, I heat the peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) over medium heat. I stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Add the chocolate chips: I remove the saucepan from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until they’re completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Then, I stir in the vanilla extract and salt if using.

Combine with oats: In a large bowl, I add the rolled oats and pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over them. I stir everything together until the oats are fully coated.

Press into pan: I line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Then, I transfer the oat mixture into the pan and press it down evenly with a spatula.

Chill: I place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set.

Cut and serve: Once chilled, I cut the bars into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 bars depending on the size I cut them. Preparation takes around 10 minutes, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time.

Variations

Add-ins: I like to mix in extras such as shredded coconut, dried fruit, or nuts like almonds or pecans for more texture and flavor.

Richer flavor: Sometimes, I drizzle extra melted chocolate on top of the bars before refrigerating for an extra chocolate boost.

Nut-free version: If I need a nut-free option, I swap out the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.

Storage/Reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They keep their texture best chilled but can also be frozen for up to a month. When ready to eat, I let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

I recommend sticking to old-fashioned rolled oats because quick oats can make the bars too soft or mushy, affecting the texture.

What if I don’t have honey or maple syrup?

You can use agave nectar or a light corn syrup alternative, but keep in mind that it might alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! I use maple syrup instead of honey and make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free or vegan-friendly.

How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?

Lining the pan with parchment paper is the best way to prevent sticking and makes it easier to lift the bars out once set.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can boost the nutrition. Just be sure to mix it well with the oats before combining with the wet ingredients.

Conclusion

These no-bake chocolate oatmeal bars are a simple, tasty snack I always keep handy. They combine wholesome oats, creamy peanut butter, and rich chocolate into bars that satisfy my sweet tooth without the fuss of baking. Whether I’m looking for a quick breakfast on the go or a post-workout energy boost, these bars are a reliable, customizable favorite I can whip up in minutes.

Recipe:

No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: About 12 bars
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These no-bake chocolate oatmeal bars are a simple, delicious, and wholesome treat with chewy oats and rich peanut butter chocolate flavor, perfect for a quick snack or energy boost.

Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

½ cup creamy peanut butter (or almond butter)

¼ cup honey or maple syrup

½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)

½ tsp vanilla extract

¼ tsp salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup) in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until smooth and well combined.
Remove from heat and add chocolate chips; stir until melted and mixture is smooth. Stir in vanilla extract and salt if using.
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats with the chocolate-peanut butter mixture and stir until oats are fully coated.
Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Transfer mixture into the pan and press down evenly with a spatula.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until bars are firm and set.
Cut into squares and serve.