Chocolate Topped Oatmeal Bars
Chocolate Topped Oatmeal Bars feature a crunchy oat base with a rich chocolate and peanut butter topping, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Blend the frosting mix, rolled oats, shortening or margarine, and sugar until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into an ungreased 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until light golden brown.
- In a saucepan, combine chocolate pieces and peanut butter.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
- Spread the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the baked bars.
- Chill until set, then cut into bars.
- Store in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, consider using coconut oil instead of shortening or margarine, which can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter. Also, feel free to add in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. Ensure the mixture is well-blended for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious bars as a sweet snack or a dessert treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up. For a fun twist, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They also make a great addition to a picnic spread or dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
These chocolate topped oatmeal bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Topped Oatmeal Bars contains roughly 368 calories, with 4g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% 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 a different type of frosting mix?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors of frosting mix, like chocolate or vanilla, to change the taste of the bars. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, so adjust the amount of sugar if necessary.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are light golden brown around the edges. You can also test them by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! To make them vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Check that the frosting mix is also dairy-free, or make your own using powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
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).