Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars

Name: Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup almond flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup melted coconut oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making these Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars whenever I need a sweet treat that's both indulgent and wholesome. The combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries is simply irresistible, and the oats add a delightful texture. Preparing these bars is easy and requires minimal ingredients, making them a go-to snack for busy days. I find that they are perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or as an after-school snack for the kids. Trust me, once you try them, they're sure to become a favorite in your home!

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:58:09.507Z

Every time I make these Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars, I am reminded of how simple and delicious dessert can be. I experimented with different fruits and found that the slight tartness of raspberries pairs perfectly with chocolate, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The addition of oats not only enhances the texture but also provides a healthy twist, making it easy to indulge without the guilt.

I recommend letting these bars cool completely before slicing them; it makes cutting much easier and results in cleaner edges. Also, feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts or seeds for added crunch. Each bite delivers a delightful surprise that keeps me coming back for more!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor combined with the tartness of fresh raspberries
Nutty oat base that provides a satisfying texture
Easy to make and perfect for year-round snacking

      

Mastering the Right Texture

Achieving the perfect texture in these Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars is crucial. The balance between the moistness from the raspberries and the chewiness of the oats plays a significant role in the final outcome. If you find the mixture too dry, consider adding a tablespoon of water or almond milk to help it blend better without compromising the structure. Conversely, if it seems too wet, a sprinkle of almond flour can absorb excess moisture, ensuring a delightful bite.

Be mindful of your baking time. Overbaking can lead to dry bars, while underbaking may leave them too gooey. Aim for a firm center; it should bounce back slightly when pressed. If after 25 minutes the edges are golden but the center looks underdone, it’s okay to leave them in for an additional 3-5 minutes, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of almond flour in this recipe not only enhances the nutty flavor but also contributes to the moisture of the bars. If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can substitute it with oat flour. Just ensure the oats you use are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions. This substitution might slightly alter the texture, but it will still yield delicious results.

Using fresh raspberries provides a burst of tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the chocolate. However, if you can’t find fresh raspberries, frozen ones can be a great alternative. Just thaw them first and gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the consistency of the bar while still delivering that tartness.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once baked and cooled, these bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut into squares and place parchment paper between each bar before freezing to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up.

These bars are incredibly versatile. If you want to add a twist, consider incorporating chopped nuts or seeds into the mixture for added crunch. They're delightful on their own, but you can also serve them with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Feel free to experiment with different fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a change in flavor!

Ingredients

For the Bars

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup almond flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup melted coconut oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

Instructions

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, blend together the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract. Gradually add this to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.

Add Raspberries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the raspberries and dark chocolate chips, being careful not to crush the raspberries.

Bake the Bars

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until set.

Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before using the parchment paper to lift them out. Slice into squares.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can substitute half the raspberries with another berry like blueberries or strawberries.

Perfecting the Bake

When baking the bars, keep an eye on the edges for doneness. They should start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating that they are cooked but still tender. If you prefer a firmer texture, you may want to bake them a little longer, adjusting in two-minute increments.

If you discover that your bars have risen too much in the oven and are puffy, they may not hold their shape upon cooling. To address this, gently flatten them with the back of a spatula right after you take them out, being careful not to squish them too much. This method helps ensure they set nicely.

Flavor Variations

For those who love coconut, adding shredded unsweetened coconut to the mixture can elevate the bars with an enticing tropical twist. About 1/2 cup should provide enough flavor without overpowering the chocolate and raspberries. Just remember to account for the additional moisture it brings, reducing slightly the amount of melted oil if necessary.

You could also swap out the dark chocolate chips for white or even butterscotch chips if you're looking for a different flavor profile. Each alternative brings a unique sweetness that can change the overall taste of your bars, allowing for customization based on your personal preferences or seasonal availability of ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen raspberries work well, but make sure to thaw them and drain excess liquid before adding.

→ How long do these bars last?

These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the fridge.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that the oats and almond flour are certified gluten-free.

→ What can I use instead of almond flour?

You can replace almond flour with oat flour or all-purpose flour, though it may alter the taste and texture slightly.