Ingredients
- 2 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 large egg, whisked
- ¾ cup nut butter (almond, peanut, or cashew)
- ¾ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided
- Flaky sea salt for topping
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the quick-cooking oats and baking powder.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the whisked egg, nut butter, pure maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of the chocolate chips.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Remaining Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of chocolate chips on top, pressing them gently into the mixture.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Add Flaky Salt: Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into bars.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 9 bars.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Nut Butter Options: Use almond, peanut, or cashew butter based on your preference. Ensure it’s well-stirred before using.
- Sweeteners: Choose between pure maple syrup or honey for natural sweetness.
- Chocolate Choices: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips work well; select according to your taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Once cooled, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: Enjoy the bars at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a gooey texture.
FAQs
What type of oats should I use?
Quick-cooking oats are recommended for a chewier texture, but old-fashioned rolled oats can be used for a heartier bite.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
How can I make the bars gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Absolutely, feel free to add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for nut butter?
Sunflower seed butter can be used as a nut-free alternative.
How do I prevent the bars from being too crumbly?
Ensure all ingredients are well combined, and don’t overbake the bars to maintain moisture.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey, but this may affect the texture slightly.
What’s the purpose of the flaky sea salt on top?
The flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness and adds a delightful contrast to the chocolate.
How should I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat squares.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Conclusion
These Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars are a versatile and delicious treat, perfect for any time of the day. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household.
