No Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

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
No Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

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

  1. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper
  2. Melt butter, honey, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract
  4. Add oats and mix until well combined
  5. Press half the mixture into the prepared pan
  6. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals
  7. Spread melted chocolate over the oat layer
  8. Top with remaining oat mixture
  9. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until set
  10. 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.
No Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

No Bake Chocolate Oat Bars

Recipe by

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

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

  1. Line an 8x8 inch pan with parchment paper
  2. Melt butter, honey, and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract
  4. Add oats and mix until well combined
  5. Press half the mixture into the prepared pan
  6. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals
  7. Spread melted chocolate over the oat layer
  8. Top with remaining oat mixture
  9. Refrigerate for 30 minutes until set
  10. 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