Introduction to M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Welcome to the wonderful world of M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars! If you’re anything like me, a gal on the constant lookout for super yummy sweets that are also easy to make, it can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. These bars are the perfect fast ‘n easy solution to brighten your day for work for your loved ones or for a hankering that just strikes out of nowhere. With that dark chocolate fudge layer combined with those pretty M&M dots peaking through, how in the world could these not make everyone happy? And, easy enough to whip up on a whim in no time at all!
Why You’ll Love This M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Life is hectic, and that’s exactly why these M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients. Plus, the combination of chewy oats and rich fudge creates an irresistible taste that your family will adore. Whether for an after-school snack or a potluck dessert, these bars are always a hit, making you the rockstar of any gathering!
Ingredients in M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Let’s dive into the delicious ingredients that make up these mouthwatering M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars! Each component plays a vital role in creating that rich, gooey goodness we all crave.
- Salted Butter: This creamy base adds richness and flavor. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Quick Oats: They provide that chewy texture and a hearty feel. Quick oats blend right into the mixture, making for a perfect bar without being too grainy.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps to bind everything together and gives the bars a nice structure. You can substitute it with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Light Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness along with a hint of molasses flavor, making everything a tad more complex and delicious.
- Kosher or Sea Salt: Just a touch enhances all the sweet flavors without making them overpowering.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The star of the fudge layer! It creates a sweet, creamy consistency that makes every bite heavenly.
- Milk Chocolate Chips: These melt beautifully into the fudge, adding a luscious chocolate flavor. Go for semi-sweet if you want a bit less sweetness.
- Additional Salted Butter: Used in the fudge for that silky smooth texture—it’s worth it!
- Mini M&M’s: Not just for decoration, these little candies add a pop of color and fun with every bite.
For those looking for variations, you can switch out the M&Ms for nuts or dried fruits if preferred. If you want the bars to be gluten-free, using certified gluten-free oats and flour can do the trick!
For exact quantities of each ingredient, be sure to check the bottom of the article where you’ll find them available for printing!
How to Make M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Now, let’s jump into the fun part—making your M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars! This recipe is so simple; you’ll want to make it again and again. Here are clear, step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process. Just follow these easy steps and watch how your kitchen turns into a haven of sweet chocolatey goodness!
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350℉. This step is essential. A hot oven ensures your bars bake evenly and turn out perfectly. While it’s warming up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. You can spray it with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. If you choose parchment, spray the pan first to help the paper stick. Trust me; this makes for easier removal later!
Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened butter, quick oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and kosher salt. For best results, use an electric mixer. As you beat the ingredients together, aim for a crumbly texture that looks chunky but well mixed. It shouldn’t be too wet or dry; think of sandy crumbs, perfect for pressing into the pan!
Step 3: Reserve and Layer
Here’s where it gets interesting! Set aside a heaping cup of that oatmeal mixture for later. This will be your topping. Now, take the remaining mixture and press it evenly into the prepared pan. You want a solid, compact layer that forms the base of your M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars. This crust should be firm but not too squished, allowing it to hold the fudge layer nicely.
Step 4: Create the Chocolate Fudge Layer
Next up is the star of the show—the chocolate fudge! In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, milk chocolate chips, and that extra butter. Give it a gentle stir as it melts. Keep the heat moderate, and don’t rush it; we want everything melting together into a smooth fudge. As the mixture unfolds into a velvety texture, you’ll fall in love with its aroma!
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Now that you have your fudge ready, pour it over the oatmeal base in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, covering every nook and cranny. Then, take your reserved oatmeal mixture and sprinkle it on top of the fudge. Spread it out gently; you want the fudge to show through in places. Finally, sprinkle those delightful mini M&M’s on top and press them lightly, ensuring they sink just a bit into the fudge. Now it’s time to bake! Slide the pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes.
Step 6: Cooling and Slicing
Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Patience is key here! Allow the bars to cool completely for 1-2 hours at room temperature. This gives the fudge a chance to set, which is vital for clean slicing. When cool, you can cut the bars into squares. The wait is worth it—trust me, your patience will be rewarded with the most delicious M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is truly softened for easy mixing.
- Don’t skip the cooling time; it ensures cleaner slices!
- Use a spatula to spread the fudge evenly without disturbing the base.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla in the fudge mixture.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container for freshness.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking pan (a larger or smaller pan can be used, adjusting bake time accordingly)
- Mixing bowls (a large bowl for the oat mixture and a medium saucepan for the fudge)
- Electric mixer or spatula (a wooden spoon works too if you prefer a workout)
- Cooling rack (you can use a plate if a cooling rack isn’t available)
Variations of M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the oatmeal mixture for an added crunch.
- Dried Fruit Twist: Swap out M&Ms for dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity zing.
- Peanut Butter Fudge: Mix in a cup of creamy peanut butter into the fudge layer for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Lower Sugar: Substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup for a healthier option.
- Double Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a more decadent treat.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions for M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
- Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
- Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Offer them at a party on a colorful platter to make them visually appealing.
- Wrap individual bars in parchment for a cute lunchbox surprise!
FAQs about M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
Can I make M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these bars a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely to keep them fresh.
What can I substitute for the sweetened condensed milk?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use evaporated milk and add a bit more sugar for sweetness. Another alternative is homemade nut or coconut butter for a different twist!
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Your bars are ready when the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. A slight jiggle is okay; they will firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Yes! Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing. They can last for about 2-3 months.
What if I have picky eaters?
Replace the M&Ms with chocolate chips or
dried fruits that your little ones enjoy. Everyone loves a treat that’s customized to their taste!
Final Thoughts
Making M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars is more than just preparing a dessert; it’s about creating sweet memories with family and friends. Every bite of these decadent bars brings joy and satisfaction as they melt in your mouth, inviting smiles all around. They’re perfect for any occasion, from bake sales to cozy family nights. And let’s not forget how easy they are to whip up, even on your busiest days! So grab your ingredients, flow with the rhythm of your kitchen, and treat yourself to these delightful bars—you deserve them!
Print
M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars are a rich and decadent treat featuring a sweet chocolate fudge layer topped with mini M&M’s and an oatmeal crumble.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened
- 1½ cups quick oats
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 bag (12 oz) milk chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup mini M&M’s
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the softened butter, quick oats, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and salt. Use an electric hand mixer, or the stand mixer with the paddle attachment, to beat until it’s well combined and it looks like chunky crumbles.
- Set aside a heaping 1 cup of the oatmeal mixture for later.
- Press the remaining oatmeal mixture into the prepared pan and form an even layer.
- In a saucepan, over medium heat, add the condensed milk, milk chocolate chips, and butter. Stir and cook until it’s completely melted and smooth.
- Pour the milk chocolate fudge over the layer of oatmeal mixture inside the pan. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the reserved 1 cup of oatmeal mixture over the fudge, trying to cover it as much as possible.
- Sprinkle the mini M&M’s over the top and gently press them down.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a cooling rack. Let the bars cool completely for 1-2 hours at room temperature before cutting and serving.
Notes
- The bars need time to set up so you can slice them, and the fudge can set in the middle.
- If using parchment paper, spray the pan first to help the parchment stick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
