Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars

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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars for an indulgent yet wholesome treat. The combination of rich chocolate and tangy raspberries creates a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, the easy-to-follow steps allow you to whip them up in no time, making them perfect for surprise guests or a cozy night in. I find that using fresh raspberries adds a moisture that balances the oats beautifully, and the result is a delightful bar that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:58:10.047Z

When I first created these Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars, I wanted something that felt decadent but didn’t break the calorie bank. The oats provide a hearty base, while the fresh raspberries offer a punch of flavor that brightens every bite. I recommend pressing the mixture firmly into the pan; this helps the bars hold together when you cut them.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different types of chocolate, and I’ve found that dark chocolate chips complement the tartness of the raspberries beautifully. This combination not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also gives me a boost of energy, making them an ideal snack for any time of day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh raspberry zest
Chewy texture with a satisfying crunch from oats
Perfect for a quick snack or dessert treat

      

Ingredient Insights

Using rolled oats is key in this recipe, as they provide the chewy texture that complements the rich chocolate and tart raspberries. Make sure not to use instant oats, as they will create a mushy consistency. For a gluten-free option, substitute with certified gluten-free rolled oats to maintain the integrity of your dessert while making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

Almond butter serves not only as a binding agent but also adds a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate and raspberry. If you don’t have almond butter on hand, you can easily swap it for peanut butter or sunflower seed butter, though this will alter the flavor profile slightly. Ensure that the nut or seed butter is well-stirred to avoid separation before measuring it out.

Baking Tips

When baking your Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars, keep a close eye on them after the 20-minute mark. You’ll want to pull them out once the edges are golden brown, as this signifies that the oats have toasted properly. Overbaking can lead to dry bars, so if you're unsure, start checking every 5 minutes to avoid disappointment.

After removing the bars from the oven, it's crucial to let them cool completely in the pan. This cooling step helps them set and makes slicing easier. If you try to cut them too early, they may crumble. Once cooled, I like to cover them loosely with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out while they cool.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars:

Ingredients

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

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get started!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake your Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking dish with parchment paper.

Mix Ingredients

In a bowl, combine rolled oats, almond butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla, and salt. Stir until well combined.

Fold in Raspberries and Chocolate

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries and dark chocolate chips ensuring not to crush the raspberries.

Bake

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

Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and slicing into bars.

Your delicious Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These bars make a perfect pairing with a warm cup of tea or coffee, elevating your snack time into a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. You can also serve them as a dessert after dinner, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent touch. If you’re entertaining guests, cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces for a charming dessert platter.

For a vibrant twist, consider drizzling melted dark chocolate over the top once cooled. This adds an extra layer of indulgence and visual appeal. Alternatively, sprinkle some chopped nuts or coconut flakes before baking for added crunch and flavor complexity.

Storage and Freezing

To store your Chocolate Raspberry Oat Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer to enjoy them later, freezing is a great option. Cut the bars into individual pieces, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired amount of bars from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. If you prefer them warm, you can reheat them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm but not hot, to preserve that chewy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen raspberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but be aware they may release more moisture. It's best to thaw and drain them first.

→ How should I store these oat bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the almond butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! Peanut butter or cashew butter also work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, these bars are gluten-free.