Name: Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 23 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup chocolate chips; ⅛ cup oats; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 pinch Cinnamon; 1½ tsp salt; ½ tbsp butter

Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet and salty with this Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar. This recipe brings together the rich, decadent flavor of melted chocolate with the crunch and slight sweetness of oats, topped with a pinch of cinnamon and a sprinkle of salt for a heavenly treat.

Photos of Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar Recipe

While most ingredients for this recipe are common household items, the one which might require a quick trip to the supermarket is chocolate chips. A good quality chocolate chip is essential for a rich taste and smooth texture in your chocolate bar. It's also important to remember that the salt you use should be coarse, as it needs to provide a crunch and contrast the sweetness.

Ingredients for Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar

Chocolate chips: These are the main ingredient for this recipe. They provide the rich, deep flavor of chocolate, and when melted, create a smooth and velvety texture.

Oats: They add a nice texture and slight sweetness to the chocolate bar, making it more interesting and wholesome.

Brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor which complements the chocolate and oats. It also helps to caramelize the oats, making them crispy.

Cinnamon: This spice brings a warm and slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and oats.

Salt: It enhances all the flavors and brings a surprising crunchy element to this sweet treat.

Butter: Adds richness and helps to bind all the elements together.

One reader, Avery Comstock says:

This salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bar recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet and salty flavors is simply divine. The crunchy texture of the oats adds a delightful contrast to the smooth chocolate. It's a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Avery Comstock

Techniques Required for Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar Recipe

Melt the chocolate chips: Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate chips until smooth and creamy.

Cook the oats: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and salt. Stir constantly until the oats are crunchy and golden brown.

Assemble the chocolate bars: Spread half of the melted chocolate on parchment paper, then evenly spread the cooked oats on top. Coat with the remaining melted chocolate and sprinkle with the remaining salt.

Chill the bars: Place the assembled chocolate bars in the fridge for 10 minutes to set.

Cut and serve: Remove the chocolate bars from the fridge, cut into desired portions, and serve.

How To Make Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar

Here’s a way to enjoy your favorite dessert at breakfast. This oatmeal chocolate bar combines salted butter and cinnamon for a salty and citrusy flavor.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Additional Time: 13 minutes

Total: 23 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupchocolate chips,semi sweet, (85 g)
⅛cupoats,steel cut, (30 g)
2tbspbrown sugar
1pinchcinnamon
1½tspsalt
½tbspbutter,salted

Instructions

Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler.
Spread half of the melted chips on parchment paper.
Place the oats over medium-high heat with sugar, cinnamon, butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Let the mixture cook, stirring constantly until the oats are crunchy.
Let the oats cool for 3 minutes then place the oats evenly on top of the melted chocolate. Coat with the remaining chocolate.
Top with the remaining salt and place in the fridge for 10 minutes.
Remove from the fridge, cut, and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 758.28kcal
Fat: 33.27g
Saturated Fat: 20.09g
Trans Fat: 0.44g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.92g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.71g
Carbohydrates: 107.44g
Fiber: 5.18g
Sugar: 87.64g
Protein: 8.74g
Cholesterol: 32.06mg
Sodium: 364.84mg
Calcium: 159.00mg
Potassium: 110.22mg
Iron: 2.44mg
Vitamin A: 48.59µg
Vitamin C: 0.68mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Your Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

To ensure your oats achieve the perfect crunch without burning, keep a close eye on them as they cook. The line between perfectly toasted and burnt can be thin. Stirring constantly not only helps to distribute the heat evenly but also allows you to monitor the color change. Once they've turned a golden brown, remove them from the heat immediately to stop the cooking process.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

Prep ahead: Prepare the oat crunch and melt the chocolate in advance to streamline the assembly process.

Use quality ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate and oats for a more flavorful and satisfying chocolate bar.

Organize your workspace: Set up all your ingredients and tools before you start to avoid any last-minute scrambling.

Proper chilling: Ensure the chocolate bars are thoroughly chilled to expedite the setting process and make them easier to cut.

Efficient cutting: Use a sharp knife and make swift, confident cuts to create clean and uniform chocolate bars.

Substitute Ingredients For Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar Recipe

chocolate chips - Substitute with cocoa nibs: Cocoa nibs provide a rich, intense chocolate flavor and a satisfying crunch, while also being lower in sugar than chocolate chips.
oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes can provide a similar texture and nutty flavor to oats, while also adding a protein boost to the recipe.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar, offering a similar sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the recipe, similar to cinnamon, but with a slightly different flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a similar salty flavor while also adding a hint of brininess.

Presenting Your Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

Elevate the plating: When presenting the salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bar, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and precise placement of the bars to showcase the layers and textures.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Utilize a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate on the plate to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of decadence to the dish.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a pop of color and a touch of whimsy to the plate by garnishing with delicate, edible flowers. This adds a beautiful, natural element to the presentation and elevates the overall aesthetic.
Utilize contrasting textures: Consider incorporating a contrasting element, such as a dusting of cocoa powder or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts, to add depth and complexity to the presentation.
Highlight with gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, consider delicately placing edible gold leaf on the plate to add a shimmering, opulent accent to the dish.
Present on a sleek, modern plate: Choose a minimalist, modern plate to showcase the chocolate bars, allowing the focus to remain on the intricate layers and flavors of the dessert.
Accompany with a quenelle of whipped cream: For a classic and refined touch, present the salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bars with a quenelle of freshly whipped cream, adding a creamy and indulgent element to the plate.
Add a dusting of edible glitter: To create a sense of enchantment and allure, lightly dust the plate with edible glitter, adding a touch of sparkle and magic to the presentation.
Incorporate a mirror glaze: Consider incorporating a mirror glaze on the plate to create a stunning, reflective surface that enhances the visual appeal of the dessert.
Present on a bed of cocoa nibs: For a sophisticated and textural element, arrange the salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bars on a bed of cocoa nibs, adding depth and complexity to the presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

Double boiler: A double boiler is a set of two pans, where one fits inside the other. It is used to melt chocolate or cook delicate sauces without burning them.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Medium-high heat: Medium-high heat refers to a stovetop setting that is hotter than medium but not as hot as high heat. It is used for cooking foods that require a quick sear or browning.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is a versatile kitchen tool used for stirring, mixing, and combining ingredients.
Knife: A knife is used for cutting and chopping ingredients, and it is an essential tool in any kitchen.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting, chopping, and preparing ingredients without damaging countertops or knives.
Refrigerator: The refrigerator is used to chill and set the chocolate bar, allowing it to harden before serving.

Storing and Freezing Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

Once the chocolate bars have cooled completely, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from sticking together and to maintain their freshness.
Place the wrapped chocolate bars in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag to protect them from moisture and odors in the refrigerator.
Refrigerated storage: the salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing instructions: for longer storage, place the wrapped chocolate bars in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, ensuring they are not crowded together to prevent them from sticking.
When ready to enjoy a frozen chocolate bar, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before unwrapping and serving.
Frozen storage: the salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bars can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Random Fact about Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

Oats are a great source of fiber and can help lower cholesterol levels.

Is Making Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bar recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. While chocolate chips and oats are commonly found in households, the addition of brown sugar and butter may increase the overall cost. However, the recipe yields a delicious dessert that can serve as a delightful treat for a family of four. Considering the moderate cost of the ingredients and the satisfaction it brings, I would rate this recipe a 7/10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of four people would be around $8-$10, making it a reasonable choice for a homemade dessert.

Are Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for salted oatmeal crunch chocolate bars, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The main ingredient is chocolate chips, which are high in sugar and fat
Brown sugar adds even more sugar to the recipe
Butter, although used in a small amount, contributes to the overall fat content
The recipe lacks any significant sources of nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, or whole grains (apart from the small amount of oats)

However, the oats do provide some redeeming qualities, as they are a good source of fiber and can help lower cholesterol levels. The small portion size of the recipe also helps to control the total calorie intake.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use dark chocolate chips with a high percentage of cocoa (70% or above) to increase the antioxidant content and reduce the sugar
Replace some or all of the brown sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Increase the amount of oats to boost the fiber content and provide a more substantial base for the chocolate
Add in some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to provide healthy fats and additional protein
Experiment with adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and natural sweetness

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Chocolate Bar Recipe

The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy oats, and a touch of salt in this recipe creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The method of layering the oats and chocolate adds an interesting twist to the traditional chocolate bar. However, I would suggest reducing the amount of salt to enhance the overall sweetness of the bar. Additionally, incorporating a variety of nuts or dried fruits could further elevate the complexity of this treat. Overall, this recipe has great potential and can be customized to suit individual preferences.

Enhance Your Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for balancing out the sweetness of the chocolate bar.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy grilled pineapple slices with a caramelized exterior, adding a tropical twist to your dessert experience.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Tangy and caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with a balsamic glaze, providing a savory contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of cream creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: This grilled lemon herb chicken is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The marinade of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice infuses the chicken with a bright and zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with a side of grilled vegetables.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and healthy dessert option. The combination of sweet mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds creates a delicious and satisfying treat that is perfect for a light and guilt-free indulgence.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bars

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory and earthy, these stuffed mushrooms are filled with a rich and creamy mixture that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you wanting more.

Bruschetta: Fresh and vibrant, this bruschetta is a perfect appetizer to awaken your palate. The juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze come together to create a burst of flavor in every bite.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Marinate the salmon in a zesty lemon and herb mixture before grilling to perfection. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a filling with ground turkey, quinoa, and a variety of spices to stuff inside colorful bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. Top with melted cheese for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Why trust this Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring rich chocolate chips and the wholesome goodness of oats. The addition of brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon brings warmth and sweetness, while a touch of salt enhances the overall taste. The careful layering of ingredients and the cooling process ensure a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. With a simple yet indulgent preparation, this chocolate bar promises to satisfy your cravings and elevate your snacking experience.

Have you tried making the Salted Oatmeal Crunch Chocolate Bar? Share your experience and any tweaks you made to the recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum.

FAQ:

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate. It will give the bars a sweeter and creamier flavor.

Can I substitute the oats with another ingredient?

Absolutely! You can substitute the oats with chopped nuts, crispy rice cereal, or even shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.

How long will these chocolate bars stay fresh?

If stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, these chocolate bars will stay fresh for up to 1 week. However, they are so delicious that they are unlikely to last that long!

Can I add other ingredients like dried fruit or nuts to the chocolate bars?

Of course! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite dried fruits, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost.

Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch?

Absolutely, you can double or even triple the recipe to make a larger batch. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly and use a larger pan for spreading the chocolate and oats mixture.