M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars are a delightful blend of chewy oats, rich cocoa, and colorful M&M candies, making them the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Whether you need a quick snack for the kids, a lunchbox surprise, or a satisfying dessert, these bars fit the bill perfectly. With their irresistible chocolate fudge flavor and eye-catching appearance, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 12 bars
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 180
- Protein: 4g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 28g per serving
- Fat: 7g per serving
- Fiber: 3g per serving
- Sugar: 10g per serving
- Sodium: 50mg per serving
Why Make This M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
There are plenty of reasons to whip up a batch of M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars. They are incredibly simple to prepare, require no special baking skills, and can be made in under 35 minutes! With the combination of wholesome oats, nut butter, and sweet M&M chocolates, they strike a balance between indulgence and nutrition. Plus, they’re adaptable—you can easily modify the ingredient list to match your dietary needs or personal preferences.
How to Make M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have delicious M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars ready to enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup M&M candies
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix these ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup), along with the vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until completely combined. Then fold in the M&M candies for a pop of color and sweetness.
Step 5: Spreading the Mixture
Spread the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish and press down firmly to create an even layer.
Step 6: Baking
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bars are firm to the touch and slightly pulling away from the edges of the baking dish.
Step 7: Cooling
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture!
How to Serve M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Enjoy these bars as a sweet treat on their own, or pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. They make a wonderful addition to picnics, birthday parties, and lunchboxes.
How to Store M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Expert Tips for Perfect M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
- If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter.
- For a richer chocolate flavor, increase the cocoa powder to 3/4 cup.
- Experiment with different varieties of M&M’s or even add in some nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Fruity Flavor: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a burst of flavor.
- Chunky Bars: Combine in chocolate chips with the M&M’s for an extra chocolatey treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly softer. Rolled oats provide a chewier texture that’s ideal for these bars. -
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use maple syrup instead of honey and choose almond butter or peanut butter to keep it vegan. -
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars should be firm and slightly pulling away from the edges of the pan. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean. -
Can I replace the M&M’s with another candy?
Yes, feel free to substitute M&M’s with chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even chopped candy bars. -
How should I cut the bars for the best results?
Use a sharp knife and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure cleaner edges.
Conclusion
M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars are an easy and delicious treat the entire family will love. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, packing them for school lunches, or simply enjoying them at home, these bars offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures. So grab your ingredients and make this delightful recipe today—you won’t regret it!
