Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: No need to scoop individual cookies; simply mix and bake.
Chewy Texture: The oats provide a hearty chewiness that complements the chocolate chips.
Versatile Add-ins: Customize with nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate.
Great for Sharing: Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a lunchbox treat.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, making it a convenient dessert

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1½ cups all-purpose flour
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or a mix)

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Add Oats and Chocolate Chips: Stir in the rolled oats and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Bake: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 squares
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40–45

Variations

Nutty Bars: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Dried Fruit: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
Peanut Butter: Substitute ½ cup of the butter with peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
Spices: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a spiced version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats may result in a softer bar.

Are these bars gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly.

How can I make these bars dairy-free?

Use dairy-free margarine and dairy-free chocolate chips to make the bars dairy-free.

Can I add coconut to the recipe?

Yes, adding ½ cup of shredded coconut can enhance the flavor and texture of the bars.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in a 13×18-inch pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar, but it will result in a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the dough. Scoop it into the pan, cover, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How should I cut the bars?

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars are a versatile and easy-to-make treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the indulgence of chocolate. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert, a snack for the kids, or a portable treat for a picnic, these bars are sure to satisfy. With endless variations and simple ingredients, they’re a go-to recipe for any occasion.