These Oatmeal Squares are loaded with chocolate and marshmallows for a healthier dessert that is quick and easy!
I’m all about the baked goods. There’s just something about cookies, cakes, and bars that brings people together and makes memories with family and friends a little sweeter. Don’t you think? And when it comes to bringing people together, these oatmeal squares need to be added to the recipe rotation at your next get-together, stat. Soft, chewy, and loaded with gooey marshmallows and melty chocolate, these bars make it hard to justify having just one.
This recipe is a personal fave of mine. These oatmeal squares are reminiscent of your classic s’more. They have few ingredients, are super easy to throw together, and are the perfect bar to bring to pretty much any gathering. No fancy equipment, no hard-to-find ingredients — just a bowl, a spoon, and a little mixing. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. Want to make them vegan? Easy. Craving a bit of a nuttier kick? Toss in some chopped pecans or almonds. They’re guaranteed crowd-pleasers and oh-so-pretty on a plate. Trust me, you’ll be fighting over the last one.
Are These Oatmeal Bars Healthy?
This recipe is meant to be a treat, so we wouldn’t classify it as “healthy,” per se. It does include some ingredients that make it a better choice than traditional cookie bars or brownies, especially store-bought options. Whole wheat pastry flour has more fiber and nutrients than all-purpose flour, and the old-fashioned oats add even more fiber to the mix. Coconut oil is a source of healthy fats, but it is calorie-dense. And coconut sugar, while it’s a less processed alternative to white sugar (and has a lower glycemic index), is still an added sugar that should be eaten in moderation. So should marshmallows and chocolate chips! But, like any good dessert, it’s nice to treat yourself every once in a while.
Like S’mores, All Grown Up
Who didn’t love a good s’more growing up? Well, good news, s’mores fans. Think of these oatmeal squares as s’mores reimagined. They’re all grown up and sophisticated now! The marshmallows offer that signature gooey sweetness, but instead of graham crackers, you’ve got layers of oats and whole wheat flour, which add a nutty, wholesome flavor. Of course, there’s also chocolate — rich, melty, and perfectly distributed throughout every bite.
Unlike traditional s’mores, you don’t need a campfire or perfect weather to enjoy them. Bake a batch on a rainy afternoon, bring them to a picnic, or just snack on them while watching your favorite shows. Plus, they’re easy to share (if you can bring yourself to part with them).
How To Make Ahead And Store
You can store these oatmeal squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, with the squares wrapped individually in plastic wrap. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are great on their own, but we love making them part of a dessert tray. Slice them up alongside some of these Apple Almond Butter Bars, Paleo Lemon Bars, or Gluten-Free Magic Cookie Bars With Coconut for a crowd-pleasing plate.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup coconut oil at room temperature (should be the consistency of softened butter, not melted)
- 1 cup packed coconut sugar
- 1 1/3 cups plus 1 tablespoon whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 2/3 cups old fashioned oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (dairy free for vegan)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees and spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Set aside.
- With a whisk or electric hand mixer, cream together the coconut oil and coconut sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt and mix until well combined into a crumbly mixture.
- Set aside about 1 1/3 cups of the crumbly mixture and press the rest of the crumbs into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Sprinkle the marshmallows and chocolate chips over the pressed crust evenly.
- Top with the remaining crumbly mixture and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the marshmallows are just turning golden.
- Let the bars cool in their pan for at least an hour before cutting, or else they won't fully set.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
You say brown sugar and then say coconut sugar, which one is correct? Am making them right now and they look great but am checking.
The recipe calls for coconut sugar. Enjoy!