No-Bake Chocolate Oat Bars Delicious and Simple Treat

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup almond butter or peanut butter
• 1 2/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 2/3 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk, based on preference)
• 1 2/3 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 4 teaspoon salt
• 1 2/3 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds) or dried fruits (like cranberries or raisins)

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, salt, and any chopped nuts or dried fruits if using. Mix well.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) together. Stir continuously until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until combined.
4. Pour the melted mixture over the dry oat mixture in the bowl. Add the chocolate chips, and stir until everything is fully incorporated.
5. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to help lift the bars out later.
6. Press the mixture firmly into the lined baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure to pack it down tightly to ensure the bars hold together.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. Once set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares or rectangles to serve.