How to Make No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars – Chewy, Decadent & Ready in 15 Minutes!

🍫 No-Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Yields 12–16 bars | Prep: 10–15 min | Chill: 1+ hr | Total: ~2 hrs

🛒 Ingredients

The Base:

2 cups (180g) old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant)

½ cup (120ml) creamy peanut butter (or almond/sunflower butter)

½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter

¼ cup (60ml) honey or maple syrup (for binding & sweetness)

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

The Chocolate Layer:

1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 tbsp (28g) butter or coconut oil (helps smooth melting)

Optional Mix-Ins:

½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)

¼ cup shredded coconut

¼ cup mini marshmallows (hello, rocky road vibes!)

2 tbsp flaxseed or chia seeds (for extra fiber)

🍓 Topping Idea: Sprinkle with sea salt or crushed pretzels before chilling!

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Pan

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or foil, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.

Lightly grease if needed.

2️⃣ Make the Oat Mixture

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, peanut butter, and honey together, stirring constantly (~3–4 mins).

Remove from heat.

Stir in vanilla, salt, and oats until fully coated.

Fold in any optional mix-ins.

💡 Pro Tip: Warm mixture should be sticky but hold together when pressed.

3️⃣ Press Into Pan

Transfer oat mixture to the prepared dish.

Use a spatula or greased hands to press it down firmly and evenly — this keeps bars from crumbling.

4️⃣ Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and 2 tbsp butter or coconut oil.

Melt in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and glossy.

5️⃣ Top & Chill

Pour melted chocolate evenly over the oat base.

Tilt pan to spread, or use a spatula for a smooth finish.

Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt, coconut, or crushed nuts.

Refrigerate at least 1 hour, until completely set.

6️⃣ Slice & Serve

Lift the slab out using the parchment overhang.