Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

These Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavors. They offer a chewy texture, rich chocolate chunks, and are a great treat for any occasion—from casual snacks to dessert at parties. With their balanced sweetness and nutritious components, these bars make an excellent choice for both kids and adults looking for a healthier sweet option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with oats and whole wheat flour, these bars provide fiber and essential nutrients.
• Easy to Make: The simple mixing method makes this recipe quick, perfect for beginner bakers or busy schedules.
• Versatile Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels to your desired sweetness, making it customizable to your taste preferences.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy a delightful combination of chewy and chocolatey in every bite—the ideal dessert experience.
• Great for Sharing: With 24 bars per batch, these cookie bars are excellent for sharing at gatherings or keeping on hand for snacks.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Spatula or wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all the ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking dish: Using a 9×13-inch baking dish ensures even baking and easy portioning of the cookie bars.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white whole wheat or whole wheat pastry flour
• ½ – ¾ cup light brown sugar (use more for a sweeter cookie; ½ cup recommended)
• ¼ – ½ cup granulated sugar (use more for a sweeter cookie; ¼ cup recommended)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp kosher salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup melted coconut oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

Add-ins

• 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chunks

How to Make Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, white whole wheat flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, and kosher salt.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat or stir until combined. The dough will have a crumbly texture.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold in the dark chocolate chunks until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Transfer Dough to Baking Dish

Transfer the crumbly dough into your prepared baking dish. Press it firmly into an even layer across the bottom.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Look for golden brown edges as an indicator that they are done.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with flaky salt before cooling completely. Slice into 24 bars before serving.

Enjoy your Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars!

How to Serve Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

These Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars can be enjoyed in numerous ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Milk

• Enjoy these bars with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that complements the rich chocolate flavor.

Top with Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on top of the bars for an extra layer of creaminess and a boost of protein.

Serve Warm

• Heat the bars slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm. This melts the chocolate chunks, enhancing their indulgent taste.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside sliced bananas, strawberries, or berries to add freshness and balance out the sweetness of the bars.

Ice Cream Delight

• Crumble the cookie bars over a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream for a delicious sundae-style dessert.

Flavored Yogurt Dip

• Pair these cookie bars with a yogurt dip flavored with honey and cinnamon for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

How to Perfect Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

To ensure your cookie bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for baking success.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right proportions, which is key to achieving the desired texture.
• Chill Dough if Needed: If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape during baking.
• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chunks for richer flavor and better melting properties in your cookie bars.
• Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven fully before baking. An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate temperatures for even cooking.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of light and chewy ones.
• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allow the baked bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.

Best Side Dishes for Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

These cookie bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookie bars perfectly.
2. Chia Seed Pudding
   Creamy chia seed pudding offers a nutritious contrast and can be flavored with vanilla or cocoa powder.
3. Nutty Granola
   A handful of nutty granola on the side adds crunch and enhances the wholesome feel of your dessert.
4. Smoothie Bowl
   A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds provides a refreshing complement while keeping things healthy.
5. Coconut Yogurt
   Creamy coconut yogurt served alongside brings tropical flavors and pairs well with chocolatey treats.
6. Coffee or Herbal Tea
   A warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea offers a comforting pairing while enhancing flavors in each bite of the bars.
7. Trail Mix
   A small bowl of trail mix can provide added texture and flavors, making it an exciting side option alongside your cookie bars.
8. Rice Cakes with Nut Spread
   Light rice cakes spread with almond or cashew butter create a satisfying crunchy counterpart to chewy cookie bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your baking experience smoother and your Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe even more successful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Old Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking soda and flours. Expired ingredients can affect the texture and taste of your bars.
• Not Measuring Accurately: Baking is a science! Use measuring cups and scales to ensure you have the right proportions for optimal results.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set properly, making them easier to cut into neat portions.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough bars. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a chewy texture.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure the correct temperature for even baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• These cookie bars can last up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or bag; they will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes for a warm treat.
• Microwave: Warm one bar on medium power for 15-20 seconds until just heated through.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to our Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe:

Can I use other types of flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour if desired. Just be aware that this may alter the texture slightly.

How do I make these cookie bars vegan?

To make them vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based oil instead of coconut oil.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, dried fruits, or seeds for added flavor and nutrition.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness!

What makes these cookie bars healthier?

These bars use whole grains, less sugar than traditional recipes, and dark chocolate chunks, which provide antioxidants while being deliciously satisfying!

Final Thoughts

These Healthier Dark Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also easy to customize according to your preferences. Try adding different flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg, or swap out chocolate chunks for your favorite dried fruits. Enjoy these wholesome treats any time of day!