Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup hazelnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/2 cup almond butter; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Golden Planning

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars because they hit the perfect balance between indulgence and health. The nutty flavor of hazelnuts combined with rich chocolate satisfies any sweet craving, while the oats add a satisfying texture. Preparing these bars is quick and easy, making them the perfect snack for busy days. Whether I’m enjoying them as an afternoon pick-me-up or sharing them with friends, they never fail to impress. Plus, they can be enjoyed warm out of the oven or chilled for a refreshing treat.

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:57:35.995Z

When I first made Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars, I wasn't sure if they would actually satisfy my chocolate cravings, but to my delight, they turned out incredible! The combination of oats and chocolate not only delivers a delicious flavor but also keeps me feeling full and energized for hours. I love adding a hint of vanilla extract to the mixture; it elevates the taste beautifully.

Over time, I've experimented with the recipe, and one tip I swear by is to chop the hazelnuts just right; too finely, and they lose their crunch, but left slightly chunky, they add the perfect texture. I find that allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing yields the best results.

Why You Will Love These Bars
Nutty hazelnut flavor with rich chocolate
Crunchy texture paired with soft oats
Quick to prepare and nutritious for any time of day

The Role of Oats and Hazelnuts

In this Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bar recipe, rolled oats are not just a filling ingredient; they serve as the foundation for the bars. Their natural fiber content provides a satisfying texture while keeping the bars hearty enough to prevent any mid-afternoon slump. Oats also absorb moisture and flavors, creating a deliciously chewy consistency that pairs perfectly with the crunch of hazelnuts.

Hazelnuts bring a unique nutty flavor that complements the rich dark chocolate beautifully. When chopped, they provide a delightful crunch, which adds depth to the soft texture of the oats. If you are unable to find hazelnuts, almonds or walnuts can serve as great substitutes, each bringing their own distinct flavor to the bars. Just be sure to toast any nuts lightly to enhance their natural oils and flavor.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

When baking these oat bars, achieving the right texture is key. You want them to be golden brown on the edges while remaining slightly soft in the center. Keep an eye on the time; start checking at around 20 minutes. If they feel too soft, give them an additional 5 minutes, ensuring you don't overbake them, as that can lead to a dry bar.

Allowing the bars to cool completely in the pan helps them firm up, making it easier to cut them into neat squares. If you're in a hurry, try placing the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to expedite the cooling process. This not only helps set the bars but also intensifies the flavors, bringing a more satisfying experience when you take the first bite.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your own Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup hazelnuts, chopped
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Once you have everything ready, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying these delicious bars!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped hazelnuts, honey or maple syrup, almond butter, dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Transfer to Pan

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan and press down firmly to compact it.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars as a nutritious snack or dessert!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try adding a handful of dark chocolate chips on top before baking. You can also substitute almond butter with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for different flavor profiles.

Storage and Make-Ahead Possibilities

These Chocolate Hazelnut Oat Bars store beautifully, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Simply keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they'll last for up to two weeks, or freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

If you're making them in advance for a busy week, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half. When you're ready to enjoy, let the bars thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or bring them to room temperature for a softer bite. They can also be enjoyed slightly warmed in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, enhancing the gooeyness of the chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These oat bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with different serving ideas. For a decadent treat, serve them warm with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Pair them with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a delightful snack or dessert.

You can also customize your bars by adding other ingredients such as dried fruits, chia seeds, or even a touch of cinnamon for extra warmth. If you're looking for a protein boost, try incorporating protein powder into the mixture, adjusting the almond butter or syrup quantities slightly to maintain the overall consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts?

Yes! Feel free to substitute hazelnuts with almonds, walnuts, or your favorite nut.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Use maple syrup for sweetness and almond butter to keep it vegan.

→ Do these bars freeze well?

Yes! You can freeze them for up to three months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.