Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent, gooey chocolate bar that's not only irresistibly delicious but also gluten-free! These Chocolate Nutella Oatmeal Fudge Bars are the ultimate dessert that will make your taste buds dance and your health-conscious heart sing. With a perfect blend of rich Nutella, hearty oats, and melted chocolate chips, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mind-blowing treat that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 cup Nutella
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, warm the Nutella and honey together for 30-45 seconds. Stir until smooth and well combined, creating a glossy mixture.
- Pour the warm Nutella-honey mixture over the dry oat ingredients. Stir until all oats are completely coated and the mixture holds together.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer. Use the back of a spatula or clean hands to compact the mixture.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the base layer, creating a chocolate chip layer.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top of the chocolate chips, creating a loose, rustic top layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden brown and the top looks set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for at least 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out of the pan. Cut into 16 even squares using a sharp knife.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the recipe is truly gluten-free
- Make sure to warm the Nutella and honey gently to prevent burning
- Press the base layer firmly to create a compact, stable foundation
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting for clean, neat squares
- For extra richness, use high-quality dark chocolate chips
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup
- Store in an airtight container to maintain optimal texture and freshness
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the mixture
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more honey to bind the ingredients
- Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for perfect, smooth squares
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
