Chocolate Oat Squares
Rich chocolate oat squares combine a chewy oat crust with a luscious chocolate and nut topping, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and ideal for sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla.
- Combine oats, flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and baking soda, then stir into the creamed mixture.
- Press two-thirds of the oat mixture into a greased 15x10 inch baking pan.
- In a pan, combine sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, remaining butter, and remaining salt.
- Cook and stir over low heat until the chocolate is melted.
- Remove from heat and stir in walnuts and remaining vanilla.
- Spread the chocolate mixture over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nutty twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat mixture. If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Make sure to press the oat mixture firmly in the pan for a better crust. If the chocolate mixture is too thick, a splash of milk can help achieve a creamier consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate oat squares are perfect as a dessert or snack. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee for a delightful treat. They also pair beautifully with a bowl of fresh fruit or a side of Cranberry Pineapple Fluff for a refreshing balance.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chocolate oat squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place squares in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at a low temperature until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Oat Squares contains roughly 2115 calories, with 21g protein, 193g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value) and iron (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats?
Yes, you can use rolled oats, but the texture will be slightly different. Quick cooking oats absorb moisture more quickly and create a softer texture, while rolled oats will give a chewier bite. If using rolled oats, consider grinding them slightly in a food processor for a closer texture to quick oats.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
If you need a substitute for sweetened condensed milk, you can combine 1 cup of evaporated milk with 1 cup of sugar, heating until dissolved. Alternatively, you can use a homemade version by simmering milk with sugar until it thickens. Keep in mind, this may alter the final sweetness of the squares.
How can I make these chocolate oat squares gluten-free?
To make gluten-free chocolate oat squares, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the oats are certified gluten-free as well, since cross-contamination can occur during processing. This will allow you to enjoy these delicious squares without gluten.
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).