Chocolate 'N' Oat Bars
Chocolate 'N' Oat Bars combine the hearty crunch of oats with rich semi-sweet chocolate and a sweet milk topping, creating a delectable treat perfect for snack time or dessert. Their chewy texture and chocolatey flavor make them a crowd-pleaser for all ages and occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and margarine, and mix well.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the oats mixture, and press the remaining mixture onto the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Pour the can of Eagle Brand milk over the crust, then sprinkle with chopped nuts and chocolate chips.
- Top with the reserved oat mixture and press down firmly.
- Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes or until light brown.
- Allow to cool, then cut into bars and store covered at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat. If you don't have quick oats, rolled oats can work as a substitute, but they may require a slightly longer baking time. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the chocolate flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts or even omit them for a nut-free version.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. Consider serving alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Chocolate 'N' Oat Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you prefer them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate 'N' Oat Bars contains roughly 578 calories, with 7g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of Eagle Brand milk?
Regular milk will not provide the same creamy texture and sweetness as Eagle Brand milk, which is sweetened condensed milk. However, you can substitute with homemade sweetened condensed milk or try a vegan version if needed. Just keep in mind it may alter the final taste and consistency slightly.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Chocolate 'N' Oat Bars, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur. This way, you can enjoy the bars without gluten while still maintaining their delicious taste.
Can I add other ingredients like dried fruit or different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins for added flavor and texture. You can also use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different taste. Just be mindful of the total volume of mix-ins to keep the texture balanced.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).