Name: M&M Bars Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 15
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups quick oats; 1½ cups flour; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup butter; 14 oz sweetened condensed milk; 1 bag milk chocolate chips; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup M&Ms

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for candy-coated chocolates, this M&M Bars recipe is a treat you can't miss. These delicious dessert bars combine the rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of milk chocolate with the crunchy sweetness of M&M's, all set in a delightful oatmeal base. They're perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a little indulgence when you need it.

Photos of M&M Bars Recipe

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples, with the possible exception of sweetened condensed milk and M&M's. Sweetened condensed milk is a thick, sweet liquid often found in the baking aisle of the supermarket, while M&M's are colorful, candy-coated chocolates available in the candy aisle. Make sure you have these on hand before you start.

Ingredients for M&M Bars

Quick oats: These are oats that have been pressed slightly thinner than rolled oats. They cook more quickly and provide a great texture to your M&M bars.

Flour: The base for your bars, helps to give structure and substance.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, as well as a touch of caramel flavor.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Butter: Adds richness and helps create a fantastic texture.

Sweetened condensed milk: It brings sweetness and moisture, and helps to bind the bars together.

Milk chocolate chips: Adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor.

M&Ms: These bring a fun crunch and burst of chocolate.

One reader, Gina Pacheco says:

I recently tried the m&m bars recipe and it was a hit! The combination of oats, chocolate, and m&ms was absolutely delicious. The bars were chewy, sweet, and had the perfect amount of crunch from the m&ms. I'll definitely be making these again!

Gina Pacheco

Techniques Required for Making M&M Bars

How to preheat oven to 350: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before starting the recipe to ensure it is at the correct temperature when the bars are ready to bake.

How to mix oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and butter: In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and softened butter using a spoon until the mixture is well blended.

How to press mixture into the pan: Press the majority of the oat mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan, ensuring an even layer.

How to melt condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter: In a small pot, melt the condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until the chips are fully melted and the mixture is well combined.

How to pour and spread chocolate chip mixture: Once the chocolate chip mixture is ready, pour it over the bottom oat layer in the pan and spread it evenly using a spatula.

How to sprinkle leftover oat mixture over the chocolate: Sprinkle the reserved cup of oat mixture evenly over the chocolate layer in the pan.

How to top with M&Ms: Sprinkle the M&Ms evenly over the top of the oat mixture in the pan before baking.

How to bake for 25-30 minutes: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bars are set.

How to let cool completely before cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.

How To Make M&M Bars

Ready in 35 minutes, treat your tastebuds to chewy sweets in this easy m&m bars recipe that layers oat batter and chocolate chip-condensed milk filling.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupsquick oats
1½cupsflour
1cupbrown sugar
1tspsalt
1cupbutter,softened, plus 2 tbsp for filling
14ozsweetened condensed milk
1bagmilk chocolate chips
1cupM&Ms

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, salt and 1 cup softened butter with a spoon. Remove 1 cup and set aside.
Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan.
In a small pot, melt condensed milk, chocolate chips, and remaining butter over low-medium heat. Stir constantly until chips are melted and everything is mixed well.
Pour chocolate chip mixture over the bottom layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle leftover cup of oat mixture over the chocolate.
Top with M&Ms and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Let cool completely before cutting.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 448.54kcal
Fat: 21.67g
Saturated Fat: 13.31g
Trans Fat: 0.55g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.71g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.91g
Carbohydrates: 58.96g
Fiber: 1.88g
Sugar: 42.10g
Protein: 5.93g
Cholesterol: 45.71mg
Sodium: 212.11mg
Calcium: 124.41mg
Potassium: 192.89mg
Iron: 0.98mg
Vitamin A: 130.86µg
Vitamin C: 0.85mg

Helpful Technique for Making M&M Bars

When melting the chocolate chips with the condensed milk and butter, it's important to keep the heat low to medium and stir constantly. This prevents the chocolate from burning and ensures a smooth, creamy texture. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk to thin it out. Remember, patience is key when melting chocolate. Rushing the process can result in a grainy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making M&M Bars Recipe

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Use quick oats: Quick oats will save time as they cook faster than regular oats and are perfect for this recipe.

Melt chocolate and butter together: Instead of melting the chocolate and butter separately, combine them in one pot to save time and effort.

Chill the bars: After baking, place the bars in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process before cutting and serving.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly mix the oat mixture, making the preparation faster and more efficient.

Pre-cut the m&ms: Pre-cut the m&ms before adding them to the bars to save time during the assembly process.

Substitute Ingredients For M&M Bars Recipe

quick oats - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats can be used as a substitute for quick oats in this recipe. They have a similar texture and will work well in the bars.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: If you need a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour in this recipe.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, providing a slightly different flavor profile but still adding sweetness to the bars.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for butter, especially if you prefer a dairy-free option.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut condensed milk: Coconut condensed milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to sweetened condensed milk in this recipe.
milk chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can be used as a substitute for milk chocolate chips, providing a richer and slightly less sweet flavor.
m&ms - Substitute with chopped nuts: Chopped nuts can be used as a substitute for M&Ms, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the bars.

How to Beautifully Present M&M Bars

Elevate the plating: When presenting the m&m bars, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use clean lines and precise placement of the bars to showcase the layers and textures.
Garnish with fresh berries: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by garnishing with a selection of fresh berries, such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries. The vibrant colors will contrast beautifully with the chocolate and add a touch of sophistication.
Incorporate artistic drizzles: Utilize artistic drizzles of caramel or chocolate sauce to add a touch of finesse to the presentation. The delicate, intricate patterns will enhance the visual appeal and create a stunning finish.
Utilize edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by incorporating edible flowers, such as pansies or violas, to add a delicate and sophisticated element to the presentation. The flowers will provide a visually stunning and refined touch.
Accent with gold leaf: For a luxurious and extravagant presentation, consider accenting the m&m bars with delicate, edible gold leaf. The shimmering gold will add a touch of opulence and elevate the overall aesthetic.
Serve on fine china: Present the m&m bars on exquisite, fine china to elevate the dining experience. The use of elegant dinnerware will enhance the sense of luxury and sophistication.
Create a symmetrical arrangement: Focus on creating a symmetrical and balanced arrangement of the m&m bars on the plate. The precision and attention to detail will showcase a high level of culinary artistry.
Incorporate geometric elements: Introduce geometric elements, such as carefully placed chocolate shards or candied nuts, to add a modern and artistic flair to the presentation. The structured shapes will create a visually striking display.

Essential Tools for Making M&M Bars

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making pie crusts, pastry dough, and even grinding nuts.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various recipes. It comes in different sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is a staple for any cook or baker.

Storing and Freezing M&M Bars

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for m&m bars:

Allow the m&m bars to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the bars soggy.
To store, place the cooled bars in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the m&m bars:
- Cut the bars into individual portions and wrap each one tightly with plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen m&m bars, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour. Alternatively, you can microwave individual bars for 15-20 seconds until softened.
For best texture and flavor, enjoy the thawed m&m bars within a day or two. Refreezing is not recommended, as it may affect the quality of the bars.

How To Reheat Leftover M&M Bars

The best way to reheat leftover m&m bars is to place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method helps to restore the texture of the oats and keeps the chocolate and m&ms melted and gooey.
Another option is to microwave individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds, or until they are warm and the chocolate is melted. However, be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the bars to become too soft and lose their texture.
If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, you can wrap the bars in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to trap the moisture and prevent the bars from drying out.
For a quick and easy reheating option, you can also place the bars in a toaster oven on the lowest setting for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works well for small batches and allows you to easily monitor the reheating process.

Interesting Fact About M&M Bars

The M&M bars recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and the crunchiness of M&Ms. It's a perfect dessert for gatherings or parties, as it's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. These bars are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth and are a fun twist on traditional cookie bars. Plus, they can be customized with different M&M colors to fit any occasion or holiday. So, next time you're craving a delicious and indulgent dessert, give these M&M bars a try!

Is Making M&M Bars at Home Cost-Effective?

The m&m bars recipe is fairly cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a large batch, making it suitable for multiple servings. The use of pantry staples like oats, flour, and brown sugar keeps the cost relatively low. The addition of m&ms may slightly increase the overall cost, but it adds a delightful touch to the bars. Considering the simplicity and popularity of this recipe, it earns a solid 8/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly treat.

Are M&M Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?

The M&M bars recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not a particularly healthy treat. The main ingredients - quick oats, flour, brown sugar, butter, sweetened condensed milk, and chocolate chips - are all high in calories, sugar, and fat. The addition of M&Ms only increases the sugar content. Consuming these bars in excess could lead to weight gain and other health issues associated with a high-sugar, high-fat diet.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to reduce the fat content
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
Reduce the amount of brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk, or replace them with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
Swap out the milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips, which contain less sugar and more antioxidants
Use a smaller amount of M&Ms or replace them with chopped nuts or dried fruit for added nutrition and texture

Editor's Opinion on M&M Bars Recipe

This M&M bars recipe is a delightful combination of chewy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness. The layers of oats, chocolate, and M&Ms create a symphony of textures and flavors. The sweetened condensed milk and chocolate chips meld together beautifully, providing a rich and indulgent base. The addition of M&Ms adds a pop of color and a playful crunch. Overall, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect treat for any occasion.

Enhance Your M&M Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving a side of colorful roasted vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, to complement the sweetness of the m&m bars.

Grilled Pineapple: For a tropical twist, grill some pineapple slices and serve them alongside the m&m bars for a refreshing and juicy side dish.

Creamy Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw with a tangy dressing can provide a nice contrast to the rich and chocolatey m&m bars.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Wrap some asparagus spears in crispy bacon for a savory and indulgent side dish that pairs well with the sweetness of the m&m bars.

Similar Recipes to M&M Bars

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

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled lemon herb chicken is a simple and delicious dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue. The zesty lemon and fragrant herbs infuse the chicken with amazing flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing: This fresh fruit salad with honey-lime dressing is a refreshing and healthy dessert option. The combination of ripe, juicy fruits and the sweet-tangy dressing creates a burst of flavors in every bite, making it the perfect ending to any meal.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement M&M Bars Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a rich and creamy mixture, these bite-sized appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This classic appetizer is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. The creamy, cheesy dip is packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with your favorite dippers. It's the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy, decadent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. This classic Italian favorite is sure to satisfy your cravings for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of a beef stir fry, featuring tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and nutritious meal.

Share your thoughts on the M&M Bars Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how your batch turned out!

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with a mixture of whole milk and granulated sugar. For every 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, you can use 1 cup of whole milk and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar. Heat the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats in this recipe. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work well.

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer, less sweet flavor. Feel free to customize the recipe to your taste.

How should I store the m&m bars?

Store the m&m bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store them for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can I use a different type of candy instead of m&ms?

Of course! You can use any type of candy or chocolate in place of m&ms. Get creative and use your favorite candies or a mix of different chocolates to personalize the bars to your liking.