Gluten-Free Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars

Prep: 15 minCook: 25 min12 barsmediumAmerican
Gluten-Free Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars

These chewy oatmeal bars combine gluten-free oats and flour with rich chocolate chips for a satisfying treat. The coconut oil adds moisture while brown sugar provides deep caramel notes. Perfect for packed lunches, afternoon snacks, or sharing at gatherings. The bars have a tender, slightly dense texture that holds together well for portable eating.

Ingredients

Yield: 12 bars
  • 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
  • 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup coconut oil, melted
    butter1:1melted butter works but adds dairyadds dairy

    high

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup brown sugar
    coconut sugar1:1paleo

    slightly less sweet with caramel notes

    Full guide →
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 units eggs
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
    dairy-free chocolate chips1:1dairy-free

    maintains chocolate flavor without dairy

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven and grease a baking pan

  2. 2

    Combine oats, flour, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl

  3. 3

    Mix melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in another bowl

  4. 4

    Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition

  5. 5

    Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined

  6. 6

    Stir in chocolate chips

  7. 7

    Spread batter evenly in prepared baking pan

  8. 8

    Bake until golden brown

  9. 9

    Cool before cutting into bars

Tips

Tip 1

Line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cuts

Tip 2

Don't overbake - bars should be golden but still soft in center for best texture

Good to Know

Storage

Store covered at room temperature for up to 5 days

Make Ahead

Can be made 2 days ahead and stored covered

Serve With

Serve at room temperature cut into squares

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overmix after adding flour to avoid tough bars

Watch

Cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbly pieces

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

coconut oil
butter1:1melted butter works but adds dairyadds dairy

high

Full guide →
chocolate chips
dairy-free chocolate chips1:1dairy-free

maintains chocolate flavor without dairy

Full guide →

General Alternatives

brown sugar
coconut sugar1:1paleo

slightly less sweet with caramel notes

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I use regular oats instead of gluten-free?

Regular oats may contain gluten from cross-contamination, so use certified gluten-free oats if avoiding gluten is important.

How do I know when they're done baking?

Bars are done when edges are golden brown and center is set but still slightly soft to touch.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, wrap individual bars and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.