Description
These Oatmeal Fudge Bars combine wholesome old-fashioned oats with rich, creamy plant-based butter and a naturally sweetened fudge layer made with cocoa powder and a natural gelling agent for a perfectly chewy and indulgent dessert. Easy to prepare and versatile for customization, they are wonderful for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup plant-based butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Fudge Layer Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plant-based butter
- 3/4 cup pure cocoa powder (natural)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Start by combining the oats, brown sugar, melted plant-based butter, vanilla extract (natural), and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl. Stir everything together until it forms a crumbly, slightly sticky mixture that will form the perfect base for your bars.
- Press the Base: Transfer the oat mixture into a lined baking pan and press it down firmly to create an even, firm layer. This step is key to ensuring your bars hold together beautifully after baking.
- Make the Fudge Layer: In a separate saucepan, melt plant-based butter with cocoa powder (natural), maple syrup (natural), and natural gelling agent over low heat, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened. This luscious fudge layer is what makes these bars truly special.
- Layer and Chill: Pour the fudge mixture evenly over the pressed oat base, spreading it out smoothly. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill until the fudge layer sets firmly, usually about 1 to 2 hours.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled and set, carefully lift the slab out of the pan and cut into squares or rectangles. Now you have perfectly chewy, rich bars ready to enjoy anytime.
Notes
- Choose quality old-fashioned oats for the best chewy texture; avoid quick oats.
- Firmly press the oat base to ensure bars hold together without crumbling.
- Adjust maple syrup or brown sugar to control sweetness to taste.
- Chill thoroughly so the fudge layer sets well before slicing to avoid messiness.
- Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean, even cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Oatmeal fudge bars, plant-based dessert, chewy chocolate bars, vegan snack, natural sweetener dessert