No-bake chocolate oats bars are a delicious and easy treat to make. Here’s a simple recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup chocolate chips (you can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
• 1 cup peanut butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
• 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare a Pan: Line an 8×8 inch (or similar size) square baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving some overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to remove the bars later.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the oats, chocolate chips, and cocoa powder. If you like a bit of texture, you can reserve some chocolate chips to sprinkle on top of the mixture later.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, combine the peanut butter and honey. Heat until they are smooth and well-mixed. Be sure to stir the mixture well. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, if using. Mix thoroughly.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture should be sticky and hold together.
5. Press Into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and evenly. If you reserved some chocolate chips, you can press them into the top for a decorative touch.
6. Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm.
7. Cut Into Bars: Once the bars have set, use the overhanging parchment paper or foil to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or bars.
8. Serve: Your no-bake chocolate oats bars are ready to be enjoyed. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their shape.

These bars are perfect for a quick and sweet energy boost, and you can customize them by adding nuts, dried fruit, or your favorite mix-ins. Enjoy!