Description

Chewy oatmeal cookie bars layered with a rich chocolate fudge center, these Oatmeal Fudge Bars are an easy, naturally sweetened treat that can be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free. Perfect as a wholesome dessert or snack.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups quick oats

1/2 cup spelt flour (or all-purpose)

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey

1/4 cup coconut oil or butter, melted

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup peanut butter or almond butter

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/4 cup milk of choice

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1/3 cup chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, stir together all the oatmeal layer ingredients until a crumbly dough forms.
Reserve about 3/4 cup of the oatmeal mixture for topping and press the rest into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
In another bowl, mix all the fudge layer ingredients until smooth. Warm nut butter slightly if needed.
Spread the fudge mixture evenly over the crust.
Crumble the reserved oatmeal mixture over the top.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the topping is lightly golden.
Let the bars cool completely before slicing to allow them to firm up.

Notes

Use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

Substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.

Chill the bars instead of baking for a no-bake version with a softer texture.

Add extra chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for a richer flavor.

A dash of cinnamon or espresso powder can enhance the oatmeal layer.

Store at room temperature for 2 days, in the fridge for a week, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 210
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 140mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg