Name: Chewy Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe: The Best Treat Ever
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Softened); 1.25 cups Brown Sugar (Packed); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature); 2 tbsp Milk (Non-dairy alternative optional); 1.75 cups All-Purpose Flour (No substitutions recommended); 2 tsp Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Ensure it’s fresh); 0.5 tsp Salt (Balances sweetness); 2.5 cups Old Fashioned Oats (Avoid quick oats); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Optional dark or milk chocolate); 1 cup Rolo Bites Candy (Unwrapped); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Optional for added crunch)

When my busy week was starting to feel a bit monotonous, I found myself yearning for a homemade treat that could bring some excitement back into my kitchen. That's when I decided to combine the nostalgia of classic oatmeal cookies with something utterly delightful—Rolos! These Chewy Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars are a game-changer, offering a gooey goodness that melds chocolate, caramel, and the satisfying chew of oatmeal.

In just 33 minutes, you can whip up these bars that are perfect for everything from family gatherings to cozy nights in. The combination of hearty oats and melting Rolos creates a warm, delectable experience, sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so you won't waste time with complicated steps or specialty ingredients. Get ready to indulge in a dessert that will have everyone coming back for more—you’re going to love every delicious bite!

Why Make Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars?

Irresistible combination: The Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars blend the classic comfort of oatmeal cookies with gooey, melted Rolos, creating an unforgettable flavor explosion.

Quick and easy: Whip these up in just 33 minutes—perfect for those busy weekdays!

Crowd-pleaser: Great for gatherings, these bars are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap in different candies or nuts for a unique twist every time.

Warm hugs: Serve them warm with ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Once you take a bite, you'll realize why these bars are the ultimate comfort food!

Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars Ingredients

Get ready to bake!

For the Batter
• Butter – 1 cup, softened. Essential for moisture and richness; soften before creaming for the best texture.
• Brown Sugar – 1 ¼ cups, packed. Adds sweetness and depth while caramelizing for a rich taste.
• Eggs – 2 large. Provide structure; use at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Milk – 2 tbsp. Enhances moisture; can swap with a non-dairy alternative if needed.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1 ¾ cups. Forms the base of the bars; no recommended substitutions for ideal texture.
• Vanilla Extract – 2 tsp. Infuses flavor into the batter; opt for pure vanilla for the best outcome.
• Baking Soda – 1 tsp. Serves as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
• Salt – ½ tsp. Balances sweetness and elevates flavor.
• Old Fashioned Oats – 2 ½ cups. Provides chewiness; avoid quick oats for the right texture.

For the Mix-Ins
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – 1 cup. Adds extra chocolatey goodness; feel free to use dark or milk chocolate.
• Rolo Bites Candy – 1 cup, unwrapped. Delivers gooey caramel bliss; no substitutions recommended as they melt uniquely.
• Optional: Chopped Pecans – 1 cup. Adds delightful crunch and flavor; perfectly tailored for those who enjoy nuts.

When you gather these ingredients for your Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe, you’ll be set for a deliciously satisfying baking adventure!

How to Make Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Preheat the oven to 375°F. This ensures your bars will bake evenly, creating that perfect golden edge you crave.
Line a 9x13 baking dish with parchment paper. If you’re using foil, give it a quick spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cream the butter and brown sugar together in a mixing bowl. Use a stand mixer or mix by hand until it’s light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Beat until well mixed and smooth.
Stir in the flour, baking soda, salt, and old fashioned oats. Mix until just combined; don’t overwork the dough to keep your bars chewy!
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, Rolo bites, and chopped pecans (if using). Be gentle to preserve the gooey goodness of the Rolos.
Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to make it nice and smooth on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the top looks mostly dry. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect texture!
Cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into bars. This step helps them set without crumbling apart.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking soda for the best rise; stale baking soda can lead to dense bars.
Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the fridge for about 30 minutes before slicing into squares.
Soft Butter: Make sure your butter is very soft to mix easily, especially if you are mixing by hand for your Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe.
Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps blend everything more smoothly together, enhancing the texture.
Don’t Overbake: Check the bars for doneness by ensuring the edges are golden brown; overbaking can lead to a dry result.
Customize with Care: Feel free to substitute the Rolos with your favorite candy, but avoid using others that do not melt properly for the best results.

Storage Tips for Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store the Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw them at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy!

Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, reheat bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive the gooey caramel goodness and make them wonderfully inviting.

Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars Variations

Customize these delightful treats to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version that still delivers on flavor.
Nut-Free: Omit the chopped pecans entirely or swap them for sunflower seeds to keep that delightful crunch while accommodating nut allergies.
Coconut Twist: Fold in 1 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that pairs wonderfully with the chocolate and caramel.
Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg into the batter for a warm spice kick that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Different Chocolates: Experiment with swapping semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate for a unique flavor experience in every bite.
Fruity Addition: Include ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins to introduce a tartness that contrasts perfectly with the rich sweetness of the bars.
Extra Gooey: If you’re a fan of gooey treats, increase the amount of Rolo candies to 1 ½ cups for extra melty goodness throughout the bars.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a swirl of creamy peanut butter on top of the dough before baking for a deliciously nutty flavor that marries beautifully with the chocolate and caramel.

Let your creativity soar as you whip up your very own personalized batch of Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars!

Make Ahead Options

These Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt, and oats) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, prepare the cookie dough (combining the prepared dry ingredients with the wet ingredients) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready to enjoy these treats, simply spread the chilled dough in the baking dish and bake as directed. They’ll be just as delicious and chewy, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars?

These delectable bars, bursting with chocolate and caramel goodness, need a little something extra to create a full meal experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm, chewy bars, creating a dreamy contrast. A scoop on top adds an indulgent touch that everyone loves!
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars. You can toss berries in a light sugar coating for a simple yet elegant dessert addition.
Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream offers a delightful textural contrast. It pairs wonderfully with the rich, gooey bars when dolloped on top for serving.
Chocolate Milkshake: Rich and creamy, a chocolate milkshake is a decadent drink that echoes the flavors of the cookie bars. Serve it alongside for the ultimate indulgence that kids and adults will love!
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso enhances the chocolatey notes of the bars. The slight bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness, making it a sophisticated pairing.
Nutty Pecan Pie: The sweet, earthy flavors of pecan pie beautifully complement the creamy caramel in the bars. This classic dessert duo brings warmth and nostalgia to your meal.

Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night, these pairings will create a meal that everyone remembers!

Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

What kind of oats should I use for Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars?
You should use old-fashioned oats to achieve the chewy texture that characterizes these bars. Quick oats won't provide the same satisfying chewiness and can lead to a different consistency altogether.

How can I store Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars, and how long do they last?
Store your Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for up to 1 week. If you prefer a firmer texture, you can also keep them in the fridge where they’ll last for 2 weeks.

Can I freeze Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars? If so, how?
Absolutely! For longer storage, individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a delicious treat!

How do I avoid crumbling when cutting the bars?
To prevent crumbling, allow the bars to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into squares. For even cleaner cuts, chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes—this helps firm them up and makes cutting much easier.

Are Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars nut-free?
These bars can be made nut-free if you omit the optional chopped pecans. They still hold plenty of flavor and excitement without nuts, and you can always substitute other mix-ins like chocolate chips or coconut for added texture.

How can I tell when Rolo Oatmeal Cookie Bars are done baking?
You’ll know the bars are done when the edges turn golden brown, and the top looks mostly dry. It’s essential not to overbake, as this can lead to dryness. For optimal results, check them a minute or two before the timer goes off!