These No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Bars with almond butter have only seven ingredients. Topped with a layer of chocolate, oat crumbles, and sea salt, this is a healthy treat for breakfast, snack, or dessert! Gluten-free and vegan.
In a small saucepan, combine almond butter and ½ cup of the maple syrup over low heat. Stir occasionally until almond butter has melted and mixture has evenly incorporated, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in salt and vanilla extract.
Place oats in a large bowl. Pour almond butter mixture over oats and stir until oats have been evenly coated. Transfer ¾ of the oat mixture to prepared pan. Using an extra piece of parchment paper, press mixture down firmly into an even layer.
In a small bowl, combine cocoa powder, melted coconut oil, and remaining 3 tablespoons of maple syrup. Whisk until combined. Pour cocoa mixture over oats in baking pan. Use a spatula to spread into an even layer.
Take remaining oat mixture and drop crumbled pieces on top. Sprinkle with sea salt. Place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set.
Slice into bars with a sharp knife and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator as chocolate filling will soften at room temperature.
Notes
To store: Keep no bake oatmeal bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
Make sure maple syrup is at room temperature - cold maple syrup will seize when combined with warm coconut oil.
No-bake means these come together very quickly. Just keep in mind they need to chill for about 2 hours to stay together. They also will need to be stored in the fridge so the chocolate topping doesn't melt.