Oatmeal Fudge Bars

Name: Oatmeal Fudge Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485633H21M7S
Total time: PT-485633H21M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 3/4 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/3 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter); 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks

Isabella

📖Life, Love, and Gastronomy 📖

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Oatmeal Fudge Bars a chewy, rich oatmeal bars layered with decadent chocolate fudge, perfect for a comforting dessert or snack. These bars combine wholesome oats with smooth chocolate for a delightful treat that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors. The chewy texture from the oats pairs beautifully with the smooth chocolate fudge layer, making every bite satisfying. Plus, it’s simple to prepare with pantry staples and healthier swaps like applesauce and whole wheat flour, so it feels like a treat without the guilt. It’s a great option when I want something sweet but still nourishing.

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats

3/4 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/3 cup maple syrup or honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/3 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter)

1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir to blend evenly.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and peanut butter until smooth and well combined.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The batter will be thick.

Spread half of the oatmeal batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the layer. Then, spread the remaining batter gently on top to cover the chocolate layer.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is set and lightly golden.

Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 bars. Prep time is about 10 minutes, and baking takes 20 to 25 minutes, so the total time is around 35 minutes. Each bar contains approximately 210 calories.

Variations

I sometimes swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter to accommodate different tastes or allergies. For a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter works great. You can also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture. If I want a more intense chocolate flavor, I’ll use semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips instead of dark. To make these bars vegan, I stick to maple syrup and make sure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.

Storage/reheating

I store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, I thaw them overnight in the fridge or warm them briefly in the microwave for about 15 seconds to soften.

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FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat flour?

Yes, all-purpose flour works fine if you don’t have whole wheat on hand. The bars will be a bit lighter in texture but still delicious.

What can I substitute for applesauce?

You can use mashed banana or yogurt as a substitute for applesauce. Just keep in mind it might change the flavor slightly.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not as written, because of the oats and flour. You can make them gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use other sweeteners besides maple syrup or honey?

Yes, you can use agave syrup, brown rice syrup, or even coconut sugar mixed with a little water as alternatives.

How do I prevent the chocolate chips from sinking?

Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the first batter layer as directed and spread the second layer gently on top to keep the layers distinct. Using slightly thicker batter helps keep them suspended.

Conclusion

I find these oatmeal fudge bars a perfect combination of wholesome and indulgent. They’re easy to whip up, healthy enough to enjoy regularly, and flexible enough to customize for dietary needs or preferences. Whether I’m looking for a quick snack, a post-dinner dessert, or something to pack in lunchboxes, these bars never disappoint. Give them a try and see how simple ingredients come together for a truly comforting treat.