Name: Oatmeal Fudge Bars Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 3 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk; 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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If you’re on the hunt for a treat that satisfies both your chocolate and cookie cravings in a single bite, look no further than these Oatmeal Fudge Bars. With layers of chewy oat cookie dough wrapped around a rich, gooey chocolate fudge center, every square brings a dreamy combination of flavor and texture. It’s the kind of classic recipe that’s as perfect for a cozy family night as it is for impressing at a potluck or bake sale. These bars are easy to make but look stunning once sliced, and the hidden fudgy core will have everyone begging for the recipe!

Oatmeal Fudge Bars Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in these Oatmeal Fudge Bars brings something essential to the party—from buttery richness and deep brown sugar notes to hearty oats and a luscious chocolate interior. Let’s give each its moment in the spotlight, so you know exactly why you’ll want every one of them on your counter before you start baking!

Unsalted butter (1 cup plus 2 tbsp): Softened butter creates a tender, cohesive dough and helps the fudge layer set perfectly.
Packed brown sugar (2 cups): Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs amazingly with oats and chocolate.
Large eggs (2): The eggs bind everything together and add a little chew to every square.
Vanilla extract (3 tsp, divided): Vanilla brings out the best in chocolate and oats, rounding out the flavors beautifully.
All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): The sturdy base of our dough, giving the bars structure without being heavy.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Just enough to give the baked bars a light lift.
Salt (1/2 tsp plus 1/2 tsp): Enhances every flavor and keeps sweetness perfectly balanced.
Old-fashioned oats (3 cups): The star for chewy texture and that classic oatmeal cookie taste.
Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): Adds creamy sweetness to the fudge filling for that signature gooey bite.
Semisweet chocolate chips (2 cups): The irresistible heart of the fudge layer; semisweet keeps things rich but not too sweet.
Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): For crunch and a nutty contrast—your call, but they’re fantastic!

How to Make Oatmeal Fudge Bars

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat

Start by getting everything ready for a smooth baking experience! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it will be hot and ready when your bars go in. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan—don’t be skimpy here, as a well-greased pan makes bar removal a breeze later.

Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and the brown sugar until it’s light, fluffy, and irresistible. Beat in the eggs and two teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and half a teaspoon of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mix, stirring gently. Once blended, fold in all those old-fashioned oats—the dough will look hearty and smell amazing already.

Step 3: Form the Bottom Crust

Press two-thirds of the oatmeal dough into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press it into an even layer—it’s the foundation for all that fudgy goodness!

Step 4: Whip Up the Fudge Filling

Set a saucepan over medium heat and pour in the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, 2 tablespoons butter, and the remaining half teaspoon of salt. Heat gently, stirring constantly, until you have a glossy, smooth chocolate sauce. Remove from the heat and stir in a teaspoon of vanilla. If you like nuts, now’s the moment: fold in the walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Layer and Top

Pour the warm chocolate fudge filling over your oat base and spread it out evenly to every edge. Don’t worry if it seems like a lot—it’s just right! With the remaining third of your oatmeal dough, drop spoonfuls over the chocolate layer. It’s okay if it doesn’t cover the top completely; those chocolate peeks are the bars’ signature look.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the oatmeal top is lightly golden and the smell is calling everyone to the kitchen. Take the pan out and let it cool completely. This patience is worth it—slicing is so much easier when they’re cool, and the flavors have time to mingle!

How to Serve Oatmeal Fudge Bars

Garnishes

For a special touch, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate over your Oatmeal Fudge Bars adds an elegant finish. If you’re feeling extra, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or a few more chopped walnuts sprinkled on top work beautifully, too. Don’t be afraid to play up the chocolate-oat combo with a pinch of flaky sea salt for those who love the sweet-salty interplay.

Side Dishes

While these bars can easily stand alone, they pair gorgeously with a tall glass of cold milk or your favorite coffee. For a more playful dessert table, try serving alongside fresh berries or a simple fruit salad—the tartness underscores the rich fudge flavor and balances out the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation matters, especially when you want your Oatmeal Fudge Bars to shine! Try cutting them into mini squares for a festive dessert platter or wrapping individual bars in parchment and tying with baker’s twine for a sweet edible gift. For parties, stack bars on a cake stand or arrange on a rustic wooden board for a charming, homemade bakery vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your first batch, store any leftover Oatmeal Fudge Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or pop them into the fridge for up to five. The slight chill gives them a firmer texture, making them perfect for grab-and-go treats in lunchboxes or snack attacks at midnight.

Freezing

To extend their life, these bars freeze beautifully! Place the cut bars on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. Stack with parchment between layers and stash in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

If you love a warm, gooey center, reheat individual Oatmeal Fudge Bars in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings the fudge layer back to life and fills the air with that irresistible fresh-baked aroma. Just be careful; they’ll be extra soft right out of the microwave!

FAQs

Can I make Oatmeal Fudge Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making these bars a day ahead lets the flavors meld even more and makes them easier to slice. Store covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, and they’ll stay fresh for days.

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

While quick oats will technically work, old-fashioned oats give the bars their signature chew and rustic look. The texture is best with the heartier oats, but if quick oats are all you have, just know the bars may be a bit softer and less distinct in their layers.

What’s the best way to slice Oatmeal Fudge Bars cleanly?

For perfect slices, let the bars cool completely in the pan, then chill for an hour in the fridge. Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between cuts for neat, café-worthy squares every time.

Can I leave out the nuts?

Certainly! Walnuts are totally optional, so you can skip them without affecting the recipe. You could also swap in pecans or even shredded coconut if you’d like a different twist.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free. The result will be just as chewy, chocolatey, and utterly delicious as the original!

Final Thoughts

Oatmeal Fudge Bars have a way of winning over any crowd, no matter the occasion. If you’re looking for a no-fuss but incredibly satisfying dessert, this is the recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Give them a try—you might just discover your new family favorite!

Oatmeal Fudge Bars Recipe

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4.6 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 bars 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible combination of chewy oatmeal and rich fudgy chocolate with these delectable Oatmeal Fudge Bars. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Oat Base:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
3 cups old-fashioned oats

For the Fudge Layer:

1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Prepare Oat Base: Cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; mix into wet ingredients. Stir in oats. Press two-thirds into pan.
Make Fudge Layer: In a saucepan, melt condensed milk, chocolate chips, butter, and salt. Remove from heat; add vanilla and walnuts. Pour over oat base.
Finish and Bake: Drop spoonfuls of remaining oat mixture on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden. Cool before slicing.