Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars are thick, chewy, and packed with rich chocolate flavor and hearty oats. These easy-to-make bars combine the comforting texture of oatmeal cookies with the indulgence of gooey chocolate chunks, all baked into one pan for a fuss-free treat. Perfect for snacking, sharing, or satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookie bars are everything you love about oatmeal cookies—chewy, buttery, and slightly nutty—but made even better with big pockets of melty chocolate in every bite. No need to scoop individual cookies; just mix, press into a pan, bake, and slice. They’re great for parties, lunchbox treats, or as a base for ice cream sundaes. Plus, they hold up beautifully for travel and storage.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Old-fashioned rolled oats
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon (optional)
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Chocolate chunks or chopped chocolate bar (semi-sweet or dark)

Optional add-ins:

• Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)
• Shredded coconut
• Peanut butter chips
• Flaky sea salt for topping

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract and beat until combined.
5. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated.
6. Fold in chocolate chunks and any additional mix-ins.
7. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 22–26 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges and set in the center.
9. Cool in the pan before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

Serves: 16–20 bars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 22–26 minutes
Total time: approx. 40 minutes

Variations

• Use mini M&Ms or candy pieces for a fun twist.
• Add a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella before baking.
• Use half chocolate chunks and half white chocolate or butterscotch chips.
• Substitute whole wheat flour for half the all-purpose flour for a slightly nutty flavor.
• Press extra chocolate chunks into the top before baking for a bakery-style finish.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave a bar for 10–15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Rolled oats provide better texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch—expect slightly softer bars.

What type of chocolate is best?

Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks for the best melty texture and rich flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.

How do I know when they’re done?

The top should be golden and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add raisins?

Absolutely. Replace half of the chocolate or add raisins for a classic oatmeal cookie flavor.

Do these bars stay soft?

Yes, they stay chewy and moist for days if stored properly.

Can I make them in a smaller pan?

Yes, for thicker bars use an 8×8-inch pan and bake a bit longer (28–32 minutes).

Are these freezer-friendly?

Yes. Slice and freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Thaw at room temp or warm in the microwave.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Use a larger sheet pan (11×17) or make two 9×13 pans. Adjust baking time as needed.

What’s the best way to cut clean bars?

Cool completely and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleasing treat—chewy, chocolatey, and packed with cozy flavor. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting to a friend, or just treating yourself, these easy-to-make bars hit the sweet spot every time. Keep them on hand for a quick snack or dessert that’s guaranteed to satisfy.

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