Here is a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Chocolate Oat Bars — chewy, chocolatey, and easy to make.

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🍫 Chocolate Oat Bars

🧁 Ingredients

For the Oat Base & Crumble:

• 1 ½ cups (135g) rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar (packed)

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 cup (180g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

• ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tablespoon butter

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional add-ins:

• ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

• ¼ cup shredded coconut

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🍪 Step-by-Step Directions

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Line an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

3. Lightly grease the parchment.

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🔹 Step 2: Make the Oat Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine:

   • Rolled oats

   • Flour

   • Brown sugar

   • Baking soda

   • Salt

2. Pour in melted butter and vanilla extract.

3. Mix until crumbly and well combined.

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🔹 Step 3: Form the Base

1. Press about 2/3 of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

2. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to create an even layer.

3. Bake for 10 minutes until slightly set.

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🔹 Step 4: Prepare the Chocolate Filling

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine:

   • Chocolate chips

   • Sweetened condensed milk

   • Butter

2. Stir continuously until melted and smooth.

3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

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🔹 Step 5: Assemble the Bars

1. Pour the warm chocolate mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.

2. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the chocolate layer (do not press down).

3. Add nuts or coconut on top if using.

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🔹 Step 6: Bake

1. Return pan to oven.

2. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown.

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🔹 Step 7: Cool Completely

1. Allow bars to cool in the pan for at least 2 hours.

2. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate for 30–60 minutes after cooling.

3. Lift out using parchment overhang and cut into squares.

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🧊 Storage

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days

• Refrigerate up to 1 week

• Freeze up to 2 months

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💡 Tips for Perfect Bars

• Press the base firmly to prevent crumbling.

• Let them cool fully before slicing — warm bars will fall apart.

• Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.