Chocolate Oatmeal Bars

Total Time Prep: 20 min. Bake: 20 min.
Yield 4 dozen
Test Kitchen Approved
Here's the perfect treat to tuck into a lunch box or serve as an after-school snack. This recipe for chocolate oatmeal bars results in chewy squares topped with a nutty crumble.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons butter, softened, divided
  • 2 cups packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 4 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
  • 3 cups quick-cooking oats
  • 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1-1/2 teaspoons salt, divided
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°. In a bowl, beat 1 cup butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Beat in eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Combine oats, flour, 1 teaspoon salt and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Press two-thirds of oat mixture into a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan.
  2. In a large saucepan, combine milk, chocolate chips, and remaining 2 tablespoons butter and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook and stir over low heat until chocolate is melted. Remove from heat; stir in walnuts and remaining 2 teaspoons vanilla. Spread over crust. Sprinkle with remaining oat mixture.
  3. Bake until golden brown, 20-25 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts

1 square: 205 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 23mg cholesterol, 155mg sodium, 28g carbohydrate (19g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.

When you bring these treats to a gathering, guests will be tempted to start at the dessert table. Chock-full of chocolate and walnuts, they will satisfy any sweet tooth. I often make a second batch just for my family. —Jennifer Eilts, Lincoln, Nebraska
Recipe Creator

© 2025 RDA Enthusiast Brands, LLC