These no bake chocolate oat bars are a simple, satisfying treat made with wholesome ingredients and no oven required. Rich chocolate, hearty oats, and creamy nut butter come together to create a delicious snack that works just as well for dessert, meal prep, or a quick energy boost during the day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These bars are incredibly easy to make and perfect for busy days. There is no baking, no complicated equipment, and no long prep time involved. The recipe uses simple pantry staples and can be customized with your favorite add-ins. They are naturally sweetened, filling, and ideal for making ahead since they store beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Rolled oats – 3 cups
Dark or milk chocolate, chopped – 1 ½ cups (about 255 g)
Peanut butter or almond butter – 1 cup
Honey or maple syrup – ½ cup
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Optional add-ins (choose up to ½ cup total):
Chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans
Raisins or dried cranberries
Chia seeds or flaxseeds
Unsweetened coconut flakes
Directions
Line an 8 × 8 inch or 9 × 9 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy removal.
In a saucepan set over low heat, combine the chopped chocolate and nut butter. Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth. You can also melt them together in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is glossy and well combined.
Add the rolled oats to the chocolate mixture and stir until all the oats are evenly coated. If using any optional add-ins, fold them in at this stage.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press it down firmly and evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon to ensure the bars hold together.
Place the pan in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours, or until the mixture is completely set. For faster results, freeze for about 30 minutes.
Once firm, lift the mixture out using the parchment paper and cut into bars or squares.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 bars
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 to 2 hours
Total time: about 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
For a crunchier texture, replace ½ cup of oats with puffed rice.
For a deeper chocolate flavor, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the melted mixture.
For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free chocolate and maple syrup.
For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter instead of nut butter.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. They stay firm and fresh when chilled.
For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Let frozen bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. No reheating is needed.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats give the best structure.
Are these bars gluten-free?
They are gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can reduce the honey or maple syrup to ⅓ cup, but the bars may be slightly less firm.
Do these bars need to stay refrigerated?
They hold their shape best when kept chilled, especially in warm environments.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, add up to ¼ cup protein powder. You may need to add 1–2 tablespoons of extra nut butter to balance the texture.
What type of chocolate works best?
Dark chocolate with around 60% cocoa provides the best balance of flavor and sweetness.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free.
Why are my bars crumbly?
They may not have been pressed firmly enough or may need more chilling time.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use a 9 × 13 inch pan.
Are these suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. They are ideal for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.
Conclusion
No bake chocolate oat bars are a perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and wholesome ingredients. With minimal effort and endless customization options, they make a reliable snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them straight from the fridge or pack them for busy days, these bars are sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
These no bake chocolate oat bars combine hearty oats, rich chocolate, and creamy nut butter into a chewy, satisfying treat that’s perfect for snacking, meal prep, or dessert—no oven required.
Ingredients
3 cups rolled oats
1 1/2 cups chopped dark or milk chocolate (about 255 g)
1 cup peanut butter or almond butter
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional add-ins (up to 1/2 cup total): chopped nuts, raisins, chia seeds, flaxseeds, coconut flakes
Instructions
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chopped chocolate and nut butter, stirring until smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
Add the oats and stir until evenly coated. Fold in any optional add-ins.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly and evenly.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours or freeze for 30 minutes, until set.
Lift out the mixture using parchment paper and cut into bars or squares.
Notes
Use maple syrup and dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.
Press the mixture firmly into the pan for compact bars.
