5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If you’re on the hunt for a deliciously simple treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without a laundry list of ingredients, look no further! These 5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are quick to whip up, made with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a snack for the kids or a sweet treat for yourself, these bars deliver on flavor and texture, all while being incredibly easy to bake.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

These cookie bars are the epitome of a crowd-pleaser. First of all, they are packed with the rich, nutty flavor of almond butter, which pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pure maple syrup. The oats add a lovely chewiness, while the chocolate chips make every bite feel indulgent. Plus, with only five main ingredients, they come together in no time, making them a fantastic option for last-minute gatherings or a cozy night in.

The Essentials

To make your 5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened almond butter – This forms the base and adds a delightful nuttiness.
• 2 large eggs – These help bind the ingredients together for a chewy texture.
• ½ cup pure maple syrup – A natural sweetener that elevates the flavors without being overly sugary.
• 1 cup oats – Rolled oats give the bars their hearty texture and make them filling.
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• ½ tsp sea salt – Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• ⅔ cup chocolate chips (optional) – For that irresistible chocolatey goodness!

Gear Checklist

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following gear on hand:

• Mixing bowl – For combining all the ingredients easily.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – To stir the mixture until well combined.
• Baking pan (8×8 inch) – The perfect size for these cookie bars.
• Parchment paper – For easy removal of the bars after baking.
• Oven – Preheat to ensure even baking.

5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: From Prep to Plate

Follow these simple steps for the perfect 5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps your bars bake evenly and gives them a lovely golden color.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the bars out after baking.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, eggs, and pure maple syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, add the oats, ground cinnamon (if using), sea salt, and chocolate chips to the wet mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and you have a thick batter.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Pan

Scoop the batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan, ensuring an even thickness.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift them out and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.

Fit It to Your Goals

These 5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars can easily be customized to fit your dietary needs or preferences:

• Nut-Free: Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg).
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free for a safe option.
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the maple syrup slightly or use a sugar substitute if desired.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Here are some tips to ensure your 5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars turn out perfectly:

• Make sure your almond butter is well-stirred if it’s natural, as the oil can separate.
• For a chewier texture, don’t overbake the bars; they should be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• Feel free to experiment with mix-ins, such as chopped nuts or dried fruit, to add your personal twist.
• These bars store well, so consider making a double batch!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your 5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars fresh:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw frozen bars, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or microwave them for a few seconds until warmed through.

Ask the Chef

Can I use other nut butters instead of almond butter?

Absolutely! Peanut butter or cashew butter would also work well in this recipe, just be mindful of the flavor differences.

What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute, but be aware that this may slightly change the flavor and sweetness level.

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars are great for meal prep. You can make them a few days in advance or freeze them for later enjoyment.

How can I make these bars more chocolatey?

Feel free to add more chocolate chips or even drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra decadent touch!

Similar Recipes

• Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Cookies
• Chocolate Chip Quinoa Bars
• Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Coconut Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies

See You at the Table

With just five simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create these delectable 5-Ingredient Almond Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or part of your meal prep, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a wholesome treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love!