Name: Oatmeal Fudge Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup packed brown sugar; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Oatmeal Fudge Bars are a dessert lover’s dream come true. With a buttery oatmeal base, a rich fudge center, and a crumbly oat topping, these bars deliver the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, treating yourself, or preparing a dessert for a special occasion, these bars will become an instant favorite.

Why You’ll Love Oatmeal Fudge Bars

What makes Oatmeal Fudge Bars irresistible is their combination of chewy oats and decadent fudge. The buttery oat layers provide a hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the silky smooth chocolate filling. They’re indulgent, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make.

Perfect for bake sales, holiday gatherings, or just an afternoon pick-me-up, these bars are versatile and crowd-pleasing. You can even customize them by adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt for an elevated flavor profile.

Ingredients for Oatmeal Fudge Bars

For the Oatmeal Layers:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups old-fashioned oats

For the Fudge Filling:

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

How to Make Oatmeal Fudge Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Oatmeal Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then fold in the oats until evenly combined. Press about two-thirds of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, reserving the rest for the topping.

Step 2: Make the Fudge Filling

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Stir constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and nuts (if using).

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Pour the fudge filling evenly over the oatmeal base. Crumble the reserved oatmeal mixture over the top of the fudge layer, leaving some gaps to let the chocolate filling peek through.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are set. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares or bars and serve.

Servings and Storing

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 20-24 bars, depending on how large you cut them. These bars are rich and satisfying, so smaller pieces are perfect for sharing or snacking.

Storing

Refrigerator: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Fudge Bars

Use Old-Fashioned Oats: For the best texture, stick with old-fashioned oats rather than quick oats. They provide a heartier chew.
Add a Finishing Touch: Sprinkle a few chocolate chips or a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Cool Completely: Let the bars cool fully before slicing to ensure the fudge layer sets properly.

Why These Bars Are a Must-Try

Oatmeal Fudge Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. The combination of buttery oatmeal layers and rich chocolate fudge is indulgent and satisfying, yet the recipe is simple enough for bakers of any skill level. Whether you’re hosting a party, baking for a potluck, or just treating yourself, these bars are guaranteed to impress.

Conclusion

When you want a dessert that’s rich, chewy, and utterly indulgent, Oatmeal Fudge Bars are the way to go. With their classic flavors and perfect balance of textures, they’re sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the magic of these delightful bars—one bite is all it takes to fall in love!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, but the texture will be slightly different. Quick oats create a softer, less chewy layer.

2. How do I keep the fudge filling from sticking when cutting the bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices. Refrigerating the bars before slicing can also help.

3. Can I add other toppings or flavors?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of caramel are great additions to customize these bars.

4. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for prepping ahead of an event.

5. What’s the best way to reheat frozen bars?

Let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, microwave individual bars for 10-15 seconds.

Oatmeal Fudge Bars

Author: Diana Carrozza
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 20-24 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Oatmeal Fudge Bars combine buttery oatmeal layers with a gooey chocolate fudge center, topped with a crumbly oat layer.

Ingredients

Scale