Healthy Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These healthy chocolate chip oatmeal bars are the perfect combination of indulgence and nutrition. They are naturally sweetened, packed with fiber, and made with wholesome ingredients that make them a guilt-free treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without excess sugar, these bars are a fantastic choice. They are also easy to make, customizable, and ideal for meal prepping.

Ingredients

rolled oats
whole wheat flour
coconut oil
honey or maple syrup
egg
vanilla extract
baking soda
cinnamon
dark chocolate chips
nuts or seeds (optional)
sea salt

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, honey or maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine – Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a thick dough forms.
5. Add Chocolate Chips – Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips and any optional nuts or seeds.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish – Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Slice – Allow the bars to cool in the pan before slicing them into squares.

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option – Use almond flour or a certified gluten-free oat flour instead of whole wheat flour.
• Vegan-Friendly – Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Nut-Free – Skip the nuts or seeds and ensure your chocolate chips are nut-free for an allergy-friendly version.
• Extra Protein – Add a scoop of protein powder to boost the protein content.
• Fruit Addition – Mix in dried fruit like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates for added sweetness and texture.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator – Keep in a sealed container for up to a week.
• Freezer – Freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually for easy grab-and-go options.
• Reheating – If desired, warm a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore a freshly baked texture.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture may be softer. Rolled oats provide a chewier consistency.

Can I substitute coconut oil?

Yes, you can use melted butter or a neutral oil like avocado oil.

Can I use regular chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips are a healthier option, but milk or semi-sweet chocolate chips work well too.

How can I make these bars lower in sugar?

Reduce the honey/maple syrup or use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.

Can I add protein powder to the recipe?

Yes, add a scoop of protein powder and slightly increase the wet ingredients to maintain the right texture.

Are these bars good for kids?

Yes! They are a nutritious and delicious snack for children.

Can I make them without eggs?

Yes, use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) as an egg substitute.

Do I need to refrigerate these bars?

Not necessarily, but refrigeration helps keep them fresh longer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time slightly.

What’s the best way to cut the bars neatly?

Let them cool completely before slicing with a sharp knife.

Conclusion

These healthy chocolate chip oatmeal bars are an easy-to-make, nutritious treat that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a light dessert, they offer a balanced combination of fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness. Try them today and enjoy a wholesome homemade treat!

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