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These Oatmeal Fudge Bars are the perfect combination of chewy oatmeal cookies and rich, chocolatey fudge. The hearty oats provide a satisfying texture while the fudge layer adds an indulgent, decadent touch. These bars are easy to make and are a great treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Oatmeal Cookie Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Fudge Layer:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Oatmeal Cookie Layer:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined. The dough will be thick.
3. Assemble the Bars:
- Press about two-thirds of the oatmeal dough into the prepared baking pan to form the bottom layer. Use your fingers or a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Bake the oatmeal crust in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until it is lightly golden and firm. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the fudge layer.
4. Prepare the Fudge Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Add the Fudge Layer:
- Once the oatmeal crust has cooled slightly, pour the warm fudge mixture over the cookie base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Top with Remaining Oatmeal Dough:
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining oatmeal dough over the fudge layer, then gently press down to slightly flatten. It’s okay if some fudge shows through.
7. Bake the Bars:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the oatmeal topping is golden and set, and the fudge layer is slightly firm to the touch.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or bars.
- For best results, refrigerate the bars for about 1 hour to allow the fudge to set and firm up.
Tips:
- Add-ins: You can add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or mini chocolate chips to the oatmeal dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.
- Customizable Fudge: For a different twist, try using white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips in the fudge layer!
These Oatmeal Fudge Bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, offering the best of both worlds: chewy oats and smooth, creamy fudge. Enjoy!
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