Introduction

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting combine chewy oats and gooey chocolate chips with a smooth, tangy frosting. These bars are perfect for a comforting dessert or an indulgent snack any time of day.

This image shows two square dessert bars stacked on top of each other on light brown parchment paper, with a white marbled texture surface beneath. Each bar has three clear layers: the bottom layer is dense and crumbly with a golden brown color filled with visible oats and walnuts, the middle layer is a thick mix of melted chocolate chunks and soft crumbly oats with a darker brown texture, and the top layer is a smooth, thick cream-colored frosting spread evenly with soft swirls on the surface. Small chocolate chips and walnut pieces are scattered around the bars, adding texture and detail. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
⅓ cup (80g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
¾ cup (97g) all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
1 cup (100g) quick oats
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup (170g) chocolate chips
½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts (optional)
4 oz block-style cream cheese (softened)
2 tablespoons salted butter (softened)
1½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it, then set aside.
Step 2: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until fully combined, scraping the bowl as needed. The batter will be fairly thin.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until completely combined.
Step 5: Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if using.
Step 6: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan. Moisten your fingertips with water and press the dough evenly into the pan. For presentation, you may add extra chocolate chips on top, especially if you’re not planning to frost the bars.
Step 7: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the edges begin to darken. It’s best to remove the bars when the center is still slightly underbaked. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 8: For the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth using a mixer. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then beat again until well combined. Scrape the bowl as necessary. Optionally, add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
Step 9: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Serve right away or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier crunch, swap walnuts for pecans or almonds.
If you prefer a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and cream cheese substitutes.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra warmth.
Press extra chocolate chips on top before baking for a more striking appearance.
Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help create thicker bars if you prefer.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 2 months; thaw completely and frost before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows two square dessert bars stacked one on top of the other on a piece of parchment paper against a white marbled background. Each bar has two layers: the bottom layer is thick and textured, with visible bits of nuts and chocolate chips in a golden-brown baked base, and the top layer is a smooth, creamy, off-white frosting with soft swirls. There are a few scattered chocolate chips and a small piece of walnut around the bars, adding a natural, casual feel. The photo is close-up, highlighting the moist and rich texture of the bars. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, you can substitute old-fashioned oats, but the texture will be a bit chewier and less fine. The baking time may also need slight adjustment.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated because of the cream cheese frosting?

Yes, it’s best to refrigerate the bars after frosting since cream cheese needs to stay cool to remain safe and fresh. They can be served at room temperature after a short rest.