When chocolate cravings strike but you don’t want to turn on the oven, these no-bake chocolate oat bars are your perfect solution. They combine the wholesome goodness of rolled oats with rich, decadent chocolate in a treat that’s ready in under an hour.
These bars strike the perfect balance between healthy-ish and indulgent, making them ideal for both afternoon snacks and dessert. Plus, they’re so simple that even kids can help make them!
Why You’ll Love This
- No oven needed – perfect for hot summer days
- Just 6 simple pantry ingredients
- Ready in under an hour, mostly hands-off time
- Great make-ahead snack or dessert
- Easily customizable with different mix-ins

Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper
- Melt butter, honey, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract
- Add oats and mix until well combined
- Press half the mixture into the prepared pan
- Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals
- Spread melted chocolate over the oat layer
- Top with remaining oat mixture
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until set
- Cut into squares and serve
Tips & Variations
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture
- Use dark, milk, or white chocolate chips based on preference
- Press mixture firmly into pan for bars that hold together well
- For a protein boost, mix in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
- Make it vegan by using maple syrup and plant-based butter
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars chilled with a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee drink. They’re perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or as an energizing afternoon snack with tea.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving if stored in the fridge
FAQs
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? Yes, but the texture will be denser.
- Why aren’t my bars setting? Make sure to refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and press firmly when forming layers.
- Can I make these gluten-free? Yes, just use certified gluten-free oats.
- How do I cut clean squares? Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Servings4
Prep15 min
Cook45 min
Calories—
Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Steps
- Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper
- Melt butter, honey, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract
- Add oats and mix until well combined
- Press half the mixture into the prepared pan
- Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals
- Spread melted chocolate over the oat layer
- Top with remaining oat mixture
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes until set
- Cut into squares and serve
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving if stored in the fridge