Decadent Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars: Your New Favorite Easy Dessert Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with these Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars! They feature a luscious, thick chocolate ganache nestled between two perfectly baked layers of a soft and wonderfully chewy oatmeal cookie recipe. This isn’t just any cookie bar; it’s an absolutely amazing dessert experience that brings together the comforting warmth of oatmeal with the irresistible richness of chocolate fudge. A true crowd-pleaser and a delightful addition to any dessert table, these homemade oatmeal bars are surprisingly simple to make, making them perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.
If you’re a fan of classic oatmeal cookies but often find yourself craving a chocolatey twist, these fudgy oatmeal cookie bars are exactly what you’ve been searching for. We’ve taken a beloved oatmeal cookie and elevated it with an incredibly decadent, rich, and gooey chocolate ganache filling. This central fudge layer is not only exquisitely delicious but also remarkably straightforward to prepare, requiring just a few common pantry ingredients. In fact, it’s so good that you might be tempted to double the fudge recipe just so you can enjoy some with a spoon before it even makes it into the bars – and honestly, we wouldn’t blame you!
One of the many reasons to adore bar cookies is their sheer convenience. Gone are the days of laboriously scooping and baking multiple batches of individual cookies, one tray after another. When time is of the essence but your sweet tooth demands satisfaction, bar cookies come to the rescue. This particular recipe for fudgy oatmeal cookie bars is incredibly efficient, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish to assemble and bake. Plus, it yields a generous amount, making it perfect for potlucks, parties, family gatherings, or simply having plenty of delicious treats on hand for the week. You’ll get enough to share with a large crowd, or to enjoy yourself over several days!
Essential Ingredients for Your Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Crafting these delectable cookie bars requires two distinct yet complementary sets of ingredients: one for the hearty, chewy oatmeal layers and another for the rich, smooth fudge center. Gathering all your ingredients before you begin will ensure a smooth and enjoyable baking process.
For the Irresistible Oatmeal Cookie Layers:
- 3 cups quick oats: These provide the classic chewy texture and wholesome flavor. While quick oats are recommended for a softer bite, old-fashioned oats can also be used for a chewier bar.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The structural foundation for our cookie dough.
- 1 tsp baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly and achieve their soft texture.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the cookie.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for richness and proper texture. Ensure it’s truly softened, not melted, for the best results in creaming with sugar.
- 2 cups brown sugar: Adds moisture, depth of flavor, and contributes to the chewy texture that defines these oatmeal cookie bars.
- 2 large eggs: Act as binders, adding structure and moisture to the dough.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: A key flavor enhancer, complementing the oats and chocolate beautifully.
For the Decadent Fudge Layer:
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Deepens the chocolate flavor and adds a touch of warmth to the fudge.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk: The secret to an incredibly creamy, smooth, and sweet fudge layer.
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides the rich, chocolatey foundation for the fudgy center. High-quality chips will make a noticeable difference.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps achieve that silky, melt-in-your-mouth ganache consistency.
How to Make Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these heavenly fudgy oatmeal cookie bars is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time.
- Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cookie bars won’t stick and will be easy to remove once cooled.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the quick oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside. This step helps distribute the leavening and salt evenly throughout the dough.
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add the brown sugar and continue beating for another 2 minutes until the mixture is well combined and creamy. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is thoroughly incorporated.
- Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed just until they are barely combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough will be thick. Set aside about one-third of this oatmeal cookie dough for the top layer, and the remaining two-thirds will form the base.
- Prepare the Fudge Layer: In a medium saucepan, combine all the chocolate fudge ingredients: vanilla extract, sweetened condensed milk, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and butter. Cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until all the chocolate chips are melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Once smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Assemble the Cookie Bars: Press 2/3 of the oatmeal cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your greased 9×13 inch pan. Don’t worry if it’s a bit sticky; a lightly floured hand can help. Pour the warm chocolate fudge mixture over this oatmeal layer and spread it gently to the edges. Finally, drop small spoonfuls of the remaining oatmeal cookie dough randomly over the top of the fudge layer. It doesn’t need to cover completely; the rustic look is part of its charm.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top oatmeal cookie layer is lightly golden brown and set. The fudge center will still be soft when hot. Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. This is a crucial step for clean, well-set bars. They can be stored and served at room temperature, but many find them even more delicious chilled straight from the fridge!
Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
Oatmeal Cookie Layers
- 3 cups quick oats
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 2 cups brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Fudge Layer
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
-
In a large bowl, combine the quick oats, flour, baking soda and salt. Whisk well and set aside.
-
In a separate, medium bowl, beat the softened butter for 2-3 minutes until light and whipped. Add brown sugar and beat for another 2 minutes until creamy. Add the eggs and vanilla, then continue to beat for another 1-2 minutes until thoroughly combined.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter/sugar mixture and mix just until barely combined. Do not overmix. Set aside about 1/3 of this oatmeal cookie dough.
-
In a medium saucepan, mix all of the chocolate fudge ingredients together (vanilla, sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter) over low heat. Stir continuously until everything is melted and smooth. Remove from heat immediately once smooth.
-
Press the larger portion (2/3) of the oatmeal cookie dough evenly into the bottom of the greased 9×13 pan. Spread the chocolate fudge mixture over this oatmeal layer. Then, drop small, spoonfuls of the remaining oatmeal cookie dough over the top of the fudge.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top oatmeal cookie layer begins to lightly brown and is set. The fudge will still be soft. Let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars. They can be stored and served at room temperature, but are also delightful cold from the fridge!
Expert Tips for Perfectly Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Achieving bakery-quality fudgy oatmeal cookie bars is easy with a few insider tips:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to cream together properly, creating a smooth, emulsified batter that traps air for a light, tender crumb.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, dry cookie bars instead of soft and chewy ones.
- Evenly Press the Base: When pressing the first layer of oatmeal cookie dough into the pan, aim for an even thickness. This ensures consistent baking and prevents some parts from being undercooked or overbaked. A flat-bottomed glass or your hands lightly floured can help.
- Cool Completely: This is perhaps the most important tip! The fudge layer needs ample time to set. Trying to cut the bars while they are still warm will result in a gooey mess. Patience will be rewarded with perfectly structured, delicious bars.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can slightly reduce the amount of brown sugar in the cookie dough, or use darker chocolate chips for the fudge layer.
What Type of Oats to Use in Oatmeal Cookie Bars?
For these Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars, I specifically recommend using quick oats. Quick oats are rolled thinner than old-fashioned oats and are cut into smaller pieces, which results in a softer, more delicate texture in the finished cookie bar. They blend seamlessly into the dough, giving you that delightful chewiness without being overly dense or gritty.
However, if you only have old-fashioned oats (also known as rolled oats) on hand, you can absolutely use them! The main difference you’ll notice is a chewier, more substantial texture in your cookie bars, with the oats being more distinct. Some people prefer this heartier bite, so it really comes down to personal preference. Just ensure you’re not using instant oats, as these tend to absorb too much liquid too quickly and can make your bars mushy.
How to Soften Butter Perfectly for Baking
Softened butter is crucial for many baking recipes, especially cookies, as it creams properly with sugar to create a light and airy texture. Here’s how to achieve that perfect consistency:
- The Patient Method (Recommended): If you have time, simply remove the butter from the refrigerator and leave it out on the kitchen counter for about 1-2 hours. The ideal softened butter should yield slightly when pressed with your finger, but not be oily or melted.
- The Quick Microwave Method: If you’re like me and your cookie cravings strike without much warning, the microwave can be your best friend – with caution! Place the stick of butter (unwrapped) in your microwave and heat it in 5-second intervals. After each interval, gently press the butter to check its softness. The key is to stop just before it starts to melt. You want it pliable, not liquid.
- My Microwave Secret: I’ve found that using the “defrost” setting on my microwave works wonders for softening butter more evenly. I’m not entirely sure of the technical reasons behind it, but it seems to warm the butter more gently and takes a little bit longer, which significantly reduces the risk of accidentally melting it. Give it a try next time you’re in a hurry!
Variations to Elevate Your Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars
These Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars are fantastic as is, but don’t hesitate to get creative with additions and variations:
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the oatmeal cookie dough for an added layer of texture and nutty flavor.
- Different Chocolates: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips in the fudge layer – dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet taste, or milk chocolate for an extra creamy, sweeter experience. White chocolate chips can also be mixed into the oatmeal layers for a visual and flavor contrast.
- Spiced Oatmeal: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the oatmeal cookie dough for a touch of warmth and classic spice that pairs beautifully with oats and chocolate.
- Salted Caramel Drizzle: Once the bars have cooled, drizzle a homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of decadence.
- Miniature Marshmallows: For a s’mores-like twist, sprinkle a layer of mini marshmallows over the fudge layer before adding the top cookie dough.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
These Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars are versatile and taste wonderful whether served warm, at room temperature, or chilled:
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the cookie layers soft and the fudge perfectly gooey.
- Refrigerated: For a firmer fudge layer and a slightly chewier cookie, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They are incredibly refreshing straight from the fridge!
- Freezing: These bars freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, cut them into individual servings. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
- Serving: Enjoy these bars as a delightful snack, a satisfying dessert after dinner, or a sweet treat for a party. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a cup of coffee.
Craving More Cookie Bars? Here Are Some of Our Favorite Bar Cookie Recipes!
If you love the ease and deliciousness of bar cookies, you’re in for a treat! Our collection features a wide variety of flavors and styles, perfect for any occasion or craving. From fruity to chocolatey, and classic to no-bake, these recipes are designed to be simple and satisfying.
- Strawberry Cheesecake Cookie Bars: A delightful combination of tangy cheesecake and sweet strawberries in a convenient bar form.
- Classic Sugar Cookie Bars: All the fun and flavor of sugar cookies, without the individual rolling and cutting. Easy to decorate for any holiday!
- Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: The beloved chocolate chip cookie, transformed into an effortlessly shareable bar.
- No-Bake Cookie Bars: Perfect for hot days or when you need a quick dessert without turning on the oven.
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: A simpler, yet equally delicious, chocolate-oatmeal combination for everyday indulgence.
- Zesty Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars: Bright and refreshing, these lemon bars are a burst of citrusy sweetness.
- Festive Swirled Patriotic Cookie Bars: Vibrant and fun, these bars are perfect for Fourth of July or any red, white, and blue celebration.
There’s truly nothing quite like the combination of soft, chewy oatmeal and rich, fudgy chocolate. These Fudgy Oatmeal Cookie Bars are a testament to that perfect pairing, offering a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. They are incredibly easy to make, feed a crowd, and are guaranteed to disappear quickly from any gathering. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven, at room temperature, or chilled for an extra bite of fudge, these bars are sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. Give them a try and discover your new favorite cookie bar!
This picture just fills my heart with so much joy! The other evening, with the sun casting a beautiful golden glow, we decided to take all the kids to the beach. Living in Western Washington means our beaches are a bit different – think rocky shores and water that hovers around a bracing 44°F (6.7°C) year-round. This little adventurer, my sweet 17-month-old, had never experienced the beach before, and her sole mission was to dive right into the water! While her enthusiasm was infectious, plunging into the frigid Pacific Northwest waters wasn’t quite on our agenda for the evening. We did, however, let her dip her tiny toes in. To my surprise, the icy cold water didn’t deter her in the slightest; it only fueled her determination to go further! She kept tugging towards the waves, and since following her into that bracing water wasn’t an appealing option for me, our beach excursion turned out to be delightfully short. Oh, the joys of a stubborn, adorable toddler! She’s certainly got a mind of her own, and every moment with her is an adventure.