Description
Chewy and rich Oatmeal Fudge Bars combine wholesome rolled oats with a luscious plant-based fudge layer for a comforting and indulgent treat. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, these bars offer a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Ideal for snacks, desserts, or gifting, they can be customized with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or spices to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Oatmeal Base
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup plant-based butter
- 1/3 cup baking sugar
Fudge Layer
- 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder (natural)
- 1/2 cup almond milk or other plant milk
- 1 tbsp natural gelling agent
- 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (natural)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts or seeds (pumpkin or sunflower seeds for nut-free)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, cherries or raisins
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom
- 1/4 cup dark or plant-based chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp natural peanut butter (for swirl)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oatmeal Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine rolled oats, plant-based butter, and baking sugar. Stir well until the mixture is evenly moistened and crumbly. Press half of this mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
- Make the Fudge Layer: In a saucepan over low heat, whisk together dark cocoa powder, plant milk, natural gelling agent, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Stir continuously until everything melts together into a smooth, rich fudge consistency. Remove from heat and mix in pure vanilla extract (natural). If using a peanut butter swirl, gently fold it into the fudge mixture now.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the warm fudge mixture evenly over the oatmeal base. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top to complete the layers. Optionally, add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and firm to the touch. Remove from oven and let cool completely to set.
- Slice and Enjoy: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment edges and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles as desired. These bars can be eaten immediately or chilled briefly for an enhanced texture.
Notes
- Use fresh cocoa powder and natural extracts to maximize flavor.
- Press the oatmeal base firmly to prevent crumbling.
- Do not overbake to keep fudge moist and chewy.
- Chill bars before cutting for cleaner slices and better texture.
- Customize toppings with toasted coconut or crushed plant-based chocolate for added flair.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Plant-Based
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Oatmeal bars, fudge bars, plant-based dessert, gluten-free snack, healthy treats
