Oatmeal Fudge Bars

Oatmeal Fudge Bars: An oldie but goodie that never goes out of style

Some recipes never need to be retired. These Oatmeal Fudge Bars are one of those tried-and-true favorites that people ask for again and again. With a warm, buttery oat layer, a soft and fudgy chocolate center, and just the right hint of butterscotch (totally optional, but are they?), these bars manage to feel nostalgic and indulgent all at the same time.

Baking with Melissa is all about making baking fun, approachable, and meant to be shared. Whether I’m hosting an in-home baking party, leading a cupcake decorating challenge, or sharing recipes here on the blog, the goal is the same. This recipe fits right in. It’s easy to make at home, great for sharing, and always a crowd-pleaser.

If you’re looking for a dessert that works for birthdays, potlucks, bake sales, or just because, these oatmeal fudge bars deliver every time.

Oatmeal Fudge Bars with Butterscotch Chips

Ingredients

• 3 cups old fashioned oats
• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 cup salted or unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 Tbsp vanilla
• 2 cups of butterscotch chips (optional, but highly recommended)

Ingredients for the Fudge

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
• 3 Tbsp salted or unsalted butter
• 1 Tbsp vanilla

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. For darker pans, reduce temperature to 325.
2. Lightly spray a 9 x 13 pan with non-stick spray or line with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar together until fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and 1 Tbsp vanilla.
5. In another bowl, combine oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Slowly mix the flour mixture into the butter mixture. Add butterscotch chips (optional) and set aside.
7. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Stir constantly until smooth.
8. Remove from heat and stir in 1 Tbsp vanilla.
9. Pat 2/3 of the oat mixture into the prepared pan.
10. Spread the chocolate mixture evenly over the top and dot with the remaining oat mixture.
11. Bake for 30 minutes.
12. Cool completely, then cut into bars.

Baking Tips from Melissa

• Let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean edges and the best texture.
• These bars travel well, which makes them perfect for parties and events.

Baking with Melissa

If you love baking at home, you’d love what we do in person too. Baking with Melissa hosts interactive baking parties and cupcake decorating parties for kids and teens throughout Los Angeles and surrounding areas. I bring everything needed, ingredients, tools, and lots of fun, so families can relax and enjoy the experience.

Follow along on Instagram and Facebook for behind-the-scenes baking, party inspiration, and more classic recipes like this one.