Simple Homemade Chewy Molasses Oatmeal Bars

January 15, 2025

Ready to bake up a treat that's sweet, wholesome, and oh-so-chewy? These molasses oatmeal bars are like a warm hug from your oven! Packed with rich molasses flavor and hearty oats, they're perfect for snacking, sharing, or indulging anytime. Let’s whip up some chewy magic!

5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

There’s something about the warm, nostalgic flavor of molasses that just makes me do a happy kitchen dance (trust me, it’s a thing). Pair that with the hearty goodness of oats, and you have a chewy little slice of homemade heaven that’s somehow both sweetly indulgent and wholesomely satisfying. These Simple Homemade Chewy Molasses Oatmeal Bars are perfect for snack time, dessert time, or, let’s be honest, any time your sweet tooth calls. Plus, they come together so effortlessly, you’ll wonder why you don’t already have a batch baking in the oven. Let’s dive into this chewy, golden-brown goodness, shall we?

Simple Homemade Chewy Molasses Oatmeal Bars Recipe

What makes these bars special is their subtle complexity of flavors, all tied together by the bold, deep richness of molasses. If you’ve never baked with molasses before, let me tell you—it’s like caramel’s moodier cousin that adds a depth of sweetness unlike anything else. Combine that with old-fashioned oats for a rustic chewiness and a smattering of warming spices like cinnamon and ginger, and you’ve got a recipe that feels like a cozy hug. Oh, and there’s plenty of brown sugar in the mix too, creating that delightful sticky, chewy texture that’ll make you swoon with every bite.

Now, let’s talk tips to make these extra irresistible. First, when measuring your molasses, give your measuring cup a light spritz of nonstick spray—this little trick will save you from half of it stubbornly clinging to the cup (molasses is sticky business, after all). Don’t skimp on the oats either; old-fashioned rolled oats are the star of these bars and give them a more satisfying bite than quick oats. Let the baked bars cool completely before slicing to ensure they're sturdy enough to hold their chewy form. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before they go into the oven—trust me, it’s a game-changer.

Ready to whip up your own batch of happiness? These oatmeal bars are fantastic as is, but if you want to get creative, feel free to toss in some add-ins like raisins, chopped nuts, or even a handful of dark chocolate chips. They’re great paired with a cup of tea, packed in a lunchbox, or shared at a potluck (if you can bear to part with them). Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the world of homemade treats, these chewy molasses oatmeal bars are a winner every time. Go ahead, make them today—you’ve earned a little sweet treat magic!

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
•1 cup whole wheat flour
•1/2 teaspoon baking soda
•1/4 teaspoon salt
•1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
•1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
•1/2 cup molasses
•1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
3
In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, molasses, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
4
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
5
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7
Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.

Nutrition Information

Calories

180 calories

Protein

Carbs

26g

Fat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

A: Quick oats can be used as a substitute, but the texture of the bars may be less chewy and more uniform. For the best results, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats as they provide a heartier texture.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for molasses?

A: If you don't have molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of maple syrup, honey, or dark corn syrup. However, keep in mind that molasses adds a distinct depth of flavor and richness that other substitutes may lack.

Q: How should I store the oatmeal bars, and how long will they last?

A: Store the oatmeal bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper before freezing for easy grab-and-go portions.

Q: Why are my bars crumbly and not holding together?

A: If your bars are crumbly, it may be due to not pressing the mixture firmly enough into the pan before baking. Additionally, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, especially the wet ingredients, as they help bind the mixture together.

Q: Can I add mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips?

A: Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding up to 1/2 cup of mix-ins such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips. Fold them into the dough after combining the wet and dry ingredients.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

A: To make the recipe vegan, replace the melted butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Additionally, ensure that your brown sugar and molasses are vegan-certified, as some brands may process these ingredients with animal-derived products.

Q: How can I tell when the bars are fully baked?

A: The bars are done when the edges turn golden brown, and the center feels set when lightly pressed. Be careful not to overbake, as this can make the bars too dry. If in doubt, start checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark.

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