Description
M&M Chocolate Fudge Oatmeal Bars are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevate your dessert game right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. While the oven heats up, take your baking pan and either grease it with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This step prevents the bars from sticking, making it easier when you want to cut them later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, quick oats, all-purpose flour, packed light brown sugar, and salt. Using an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the ingredients until they form a crumbly mixture. You’re aiming for a texture that resembles chunky crumbles. Once mixed, set aside about 1 cup of this oatmeal mixture for the topping, which will help create a nice crumb on top of the fudge.
- Next, take the remaining oatmeal mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Aim for an even layer that covers the entire base, which will serve as the foundation for the rich chocolate fudge layer.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, milk chocolate chips, and additional butter. Continuously stir the mixture as it melts, ensuring it becomes smooth and well-combined. This melting process is crucial as it will create a luscious fudge layer that binds all the flavors together.
- Once the fudge mixture is fully melted and smooth, pour it over the oatmeal layer in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. This fudgy layer is the star of your bars. Afterward, take the reserved oatmeal crumble and sprinkle it generously over the fudge layer, covering it as much as possible. This adds texture and a delightful crunch to every bite.
- Now it’s time for the finishing touch! Sprinkle the mini M&M’s over the top of the oatmeal crumble layer. Gently press them down into the mixture to secure them in place. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
- Once baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven and set it on a cooling rack. Allow the bars to cool completely to room temperature, which can take about 1 to 2 hours. This cooling period is essential for the bars to firm up for easy slicing. Once cool, cut them into squares or bars, and serve!
Notes
Ensure the butter is softened before mixing, as this creates a smoother batter. For best results, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to achieve clean edges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 200 per bar
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Protein: 2 g