Introduction

Oatmeal Fudge Bars are a delightful treat that combines chewy oats with rich, creamy chocolate fudge. These bars offer the perfect balance of texture and sweetness, making them an irresistible snack for any occasion.

The image shows a square chocolate chip cookie bar with a thick, smooth, dark chocolate layer in the middle on a white round plate. The bottom and top layers are golden brown cookie dough with visible chocolate chips and a slightly crumbly texture. The bar has clean edges, and some crumbs are scattered on the plate. In the background, there is a glass of milk and more cookie bars on a white tray, all on a white marbled surface. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the glossy chocolate layer and the textured cookie dough. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 and 1/3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 and 1/4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or 50-70% dark chocolate)
1 cup sweetened condensed milk (one 14-oz can; do not use evaporated milk)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang around the edges, or line with aluminum foil and lightly grease.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Then whisk in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Fold in the flour, salt, and cinnamon, followed by the old-fashioned oats until well combined.
Step 4: Spoon about three quarters of the oatmeal mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and spread it evenly to form the oatmeal cookie layer. Set aside the remaining mixture (about 1/2 to 3/4 cup).
Step 5: Prepare the chocolate fudge layer by adding about 1/2 inch of water to a medium saucepan over low-medium heat. Place a large heatproof glass bowl on top of the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
Step 6: Add the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter to the glass bowl. Stir gently as the mixture melts, continuing until smooth and fully combined. Remove from heat.
Step 7: Pour the melted chocolate fudge evenly over the oatmeal cookie layer in the pan.
Step 8: Drop spoonfuls of the reserved oatmeal mixture over the top of the fudge layer, leaving some fudge visible between the oatmeal pieces.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the oatmeal pieces on top look set. For chewier bars, avoid baking longer as it will make them crispier.
Step 10: Let the bars cool completely in the pan, about 3 hours. Use the parchment paper or foil overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board. Slice into bars with a sharp knife.

Tips & Variations

For a richer chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate chips between 60-70% cocoa.
Adding a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the oatmeal mixture can add a nice crunch.
If you prefer a softer bar, slightly underbake and allow the bars to set fully as they cool.
Use parchment paper for easier removal of bars from the pan and cleaner slicing.

Storage

Store the oatmeal fudge bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat gently in a microwave or enjoy chilled based on your preference.

How to Serve

The image shows a cooling rack placed on a white marbled surface, holding nine square brownies. Each brownie is dark brown with a rough texture and has uneven dollops of light tan peanut butter spread on top. The peanut butter spots vary in size and shape, creating a contrast against the dark base. A bowl with white cream is in the top right corner with a woman's hand near it, slightly out of focus. The overall lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the textures clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute quick oats for old-fashioned oats?

Quick oats can be used in a pinch but will result in a softer, less textured bar. Old-fashioned oats provide better chewiness and structure in this recipe.

What can I use if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?

Sweetened condensed milk is key for the fudge layer’s texture and sweetness. Avoid evaporated milk, as it lacks sugar. If necessary, you can make a homemade version by simmering milk with sugar until thickened.