Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – This recipe requires minimal prep and simple ingredients.
Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with fiber from oats and natural sweetness from honey or maple syrup.
Customizable – You can add nuts, dried fruit, or seeds to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly – A great way to sneak in whole grains while still tasting delicious.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

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

Old-fashioned rolled oats
Whole wheat flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option)
Baking powder
Cinnamon
Salt
Coconut oil or melted butter
Honey or maple syrup
Egg
Vanilla extract
Dark chocolate chips

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Prepare the wet ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey (or maple syrup), egg, and vanilla extract.
Combine everything – Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Transfer to baking pan – Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and slice – Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares or bars.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Nutty Flavor – Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans for extra crunch.
Fruity Twist – Mix in dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates.
Protein Boost – Stir in a scoop of protein powder or add chia seeds.
Dairy-Free – Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut oil instead of butter.
Extra Chocolatey – Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top after baking.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezer: Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a softer texture.

FAQs

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Use almond flour or a certified gluten-free oat flour instead of whole wheat flour.

Can I replace the egg?

Yes! Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) as a substitute.

Are these bars good for breakfast?

Absolutely! They are packed with fiber and healthy fats, making them a great morning option.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Rolled oats give a chewier consistency.

Can I use coconut sugar instead of honey or maple syrup?

Yes, but you may need to add a little extra liquid to balance the dryness.

How do I make these bars extra soft?

Add a little unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for a softer texture.

Can I make them nut-free?

Yes, just avoid adding nuts and use a nut-free milk alternative if needed.

What type of chocolate chips should I use?

Dark chocolate chips are a great choice for a healthier option, but semi-sweet or milk chocolate can also work.

How do I prevent the bars from becoming too dry?

Don’t overbake them and make sure to use enough wet ingredients like honey or coconut oil.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a 9×13-inch baking pan and increase the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack that’s easy to make and perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re looking for a grab-and-go breakfast, a post-workout treat, or a healthy dessert, these bars have you covered. Try out different variations to make them your own, and enjoy a wholesome, homemade snack!

Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

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These Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars are soft, chewy, and naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup. Made with wholesome oats, nut butter, and dark chocolate chips, they are a guilt-free treat that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack. They’re easy to make, gluten-free, and kid-friendly!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mix the oats, almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, egg, and applesauce.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool before slicing into bars.

Notes

Use gluten-free oats if needed.
Substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.