Name: Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

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These oatmeal chocolate chip bars are the perfect fusion of chewy oats and melty chocolate in every bite. Baked into a soft and thick bar form, they’re a quick and satisfying treat that comes together with simple pantry staples. Whether I want a lunchbox snack, an after-dinner dessert, or something cozy with a cup of coffee, these bars always hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bars blend the heartiness of oats with the rich indulgence of chocolate chips. They’re incredibly easy to make – no need to chill dough or shape individual cookies. Everything gets mixed in one bowl, spread into a pan, and baked. Plus, the texture is unbeatable: soft, chewy, and just the right amount of gooey from the chocolate. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Old-fashioned rolled oats
Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, I cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
I beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then slowly mix it into the wet ingredients.
I fold in the oats and chocolate chips until everything is well combined.
I spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
I bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
Once done, I let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 bars. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prepare the batter and 25–30 minutes to bake, so I can have a full batch ready in just around 40 minutes.

Variations

I like to swap in different mix-ins depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I replace half the chocolate chips with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchier bite. Dried cranberries or raisins also add a nice chew and subtle sweetness. For a deeper flavor, I’ve even tried browning the butter before mixing—it adds a rich, nutty undertone.

storage/reheating

Once the bars are fully cooled, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I warm a bar in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back that freshly-baked softness. Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars

FAQs

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

I check for golden edges and insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bars are ready.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

I’ve tried it, and while it works, the texture becomes slightly softer. I prefer old-fashioned oats for that chewy bite.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The bars still come out delicious.

Why did my bars turn out dry?

Overbaking is usually the culprit. I make sure to take them out as soon as the center is set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. I just use a larger pan (like a sheet pan) and adjust the baking time slightly, watching carefully so they don’t overbake.

Conclusion

These oatmeal chocolate chip bars are everything I love in a dessert: easy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m baking for a group or just want something sweet on hand, they’re a go-to that never disappoints. With just one bowl and simple ingredients, I can whip them up anytime the craving hits.