O' Henry

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

O'Henry is a rich, chewy bar featuring oatmeal, chocolate, and peanut butter, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch. Perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or a quick snack, it's easy to make and loved by all ages for its hearty texture and indulgent flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 4 cups oatmeal
  • 2/3 cup margarine
  • 1/2 cup light Karo syrup
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1 cup chocolate bits
  • 2/3 cup peanut butter

Instructions

  1. Mix oatmeal, margarine, light Karo, brown sugar, and vanilla together.
  2. Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
  3. Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you prefer a more decadent treat, you can add chopped nuts or dried fruits. Substitute honey for light Karo syrup for a different sweetness profile. Ensure the oatmeal you use is quick-cooking for the best texture, similar to what you'd find in American recipes like Old Fashioned Raisin Squares.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these treats warm for a gooey texture, or let them cool for a firmer bite. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also enjoy them alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack, complementing recipes like Raspberry Cheese Coffee Cake.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of O' Henry contains roughly 1471 calories, with 16g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (95% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1471 kcal 74% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.3g 33% DV
Total Fat 32.8g 42% DV
Carbs 144.2g 52% DV
Fiber 11.1g 40% DV
Sugar 93.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 335.9mg 15% DV
Potassium 852.2mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 1.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 463.2mcg 51% DV
Calcium 297.4mg 23% DV
Iron 17.1mg 95% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Peanut

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 oats?

Yes, you can use rolled oats, but the texture will be chewier. If you prefer a softer texture, pulse rolled oats in a food processor a few times to break them down slightly. This way, they will blend better with the other ingredients.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

If you're allergic to peanut butter or prefer a different flavor, almond butter or sunflower seed butter are excellent alternatives. They will still provide creaminess and richness to the bars without compromising on taste.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make O' Henry gluten-free, ensure you use certified gluten-free oats. Additionally, check that the chocolate bits and any other ingredients are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat that fits into your dietary needs.

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).

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