Gee-Gee Bars
Gee-Gee Bars are delicious oatmeal bars with a sweet brown sugar crust and chocolate topping, perfect for snacking, picnics, or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted butter, egg, vanilla, flour, soda, salt, oatmeal, and brown sugar well (like pie crust).
- Pat 2/3 of the mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Top with chocolate mixture (if applicable, though not specified in the ingredients).
- Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture on top.
- Pat down gently.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular melted butter. If you're out of brown sugar, you can substitute it with a mix of white sugar and molasses. Also, adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the overall taste. Make sure to mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid tough bars. If you like nuts, feel free to incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans.
Serving Suggestions
These bars can be served as a delightful snack or dessert, perfect for gatherings or as an after-school treat. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or enjoy them alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. They also complement well with a slice of Great Aunt Ruby'S Buttermilk Pie for a cozy dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Gee-Gee Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm them in a low oven for a few minutes until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gee-Gee Bars contains roughly 620 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 798mg per serving (35% 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 make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Gee-Gee Bars a day in advance. Just ensure they are completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container. They will maintain their texture and flavor well. This makes them a great option for parties or family gatherings, allowing you to enjoy the event without last-minute baking.
What can I use instead of oatmeal?
If you don't have oatmeal, you can substitute it with equal parts of crushed graham crackers or finely chopped nuts for added texture. Keep in mind that this will change the overall flavor and texture, so it's best to use oats if possible. For a gluten-free option, choose certified gluten-free oats.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! To freeze Gee-Gee Bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat them gently in the oven for a few minutes.
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).