An easy chocolate chip cookie bar recipe with a creamy peanut butter fudge layer sandwiched between an oatmeal cookie crumble, also known as Oatmeal Dream Bars. This dessert combines the richness of chocolate with the wholesome texture of oats, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2¼ cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 (12-ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray with cooking spray; set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix with an electric mixer on low speed until smooth.
3. Add flour and oats to the mixture, continuing to mix until well combined. Reserve 1 heaping cup of this oat mixture for later use.
4. Press the remaining oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.
5. While the base is baking, combine sweetened condensed milk and peanut butter in a medium bowl, mixing until smooth.
6. After the base has baked for 10 minutes, remove it from the oven and pour the peanut butter mixture over it, spreading evenly.
7. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the peanut butter layer.
8. Crumble the reserved oat mixture over the chocolate chips.
9. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
10. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 280 kcal
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 180mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 5g

The Perfect Blend of Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and Oatmeal

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are the ultimate combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and hearty oats. They bring together the best flavors in one decadent dessert. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat for your family, a dessert for a special occasion, or a snack that satisfies your sweet tooth without being overly complicated, these bars check all the boxes. The unique layering of textures makes every bite delightful chewy oatmeal, smooth peanut butter filling, and melty chocolate chips create a harmony of flavors that are simply irresistible.

The History of Oatmeal Bars

Oatmeal has long been a staple ingredient in baking, especially in American kitchens. The concept of oatmeal bars evolved from traditional oatmeal cookies, which date back to the late 19th century. Oats were initially introduced in baking as a cost-effective and nutritious ingredient. Over time, bakers experimented with different flavors, leading to variations such as oatmeal raisin cookies, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, and eventually, oatmeal bars. Combining oatmeal with peanut butter and chocolate is a modern twist that enhances both the flavor and texture, making these bars a household favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

One of the biggest reasons why Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are so popular is their perfect balance of flavors. Oats provide a slightly nutty taste and chewy texture, peanut butter adds a rich and creamy consistency, and chocolate brings in a deep, indulgent sweetness. These bars are also incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time. Unlike traditional cookies that need individual scooping and shaping, these bars are baked in a single pan and cut into squares, making them a time-saving option for busy bakers.

The Role of Key Ingredients

• Oatmeal: Adds texture, fiber, and a wholesome, nutty flavor.
• Peanut Butter: Provides creaminess and complements the chocolate.
• Chocolate Chips: The sweetness of chocolate balances the saltiness of peanut butter.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Helps bind the layers and adds a caramelized sweetness.

Customizing This Recipe

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak the ingredients to fit your dietary preferences or to add a unique twist. Here are some customization ideas:

• Make It Healthier: Swap out regular flour for whole wheat flour, use natural peanut butter with no added sugar, or replace some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup.
• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can add an extra crunch and enhance the flavor.
• Use Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a richer, slightly less sweet taste, substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter alternative to make this recipe suitable for those with dairy allergies.
• Gluten-Free Version: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

How to Store and Serve These Bars

These bars are incredibly easy to store and maintain their texture for several days, making them a great make-ahead dessert or snack.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Refrigeration: For a firmer texture, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• Freezing: These bars freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe container, and store for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave before serving.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of settings:

• School Lunches: A sweet treat that packs well and is loved by kids.
• Potlucks and Parties: A crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
• Holiday Baking: Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gift boxes, and festive gatherings.
• After-Dinner Dessert: A comforting homemade treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or milk.
• Meal Prepping: Since they store well, you can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Why You’ll Love These Bars

There are so many reasons to love this recipe! Not only are these bars easy to make, but they also bring a nostalgic feeling with every bite. The comforting combination of oats, chocolate, and peanut butter is reminiscent of classic homemade treats, making them a guaranteed hit in any household. Additionally, because they are made with pantry staples, they are an affordable and convenient dessert option.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars are the ultimate dessert that perfectly combines chewy, creamy, and chocolatey textures into one delightful bite. They are easy to prepare, customizable, and great for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a school snack, or a personal indulgence, these bars will quickly become a favorite.