When the midweek cravings kick in, there’s nothing quite like a sweet treat to bring joy back into your day. That’s where these Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars come in, a delightful combination of soft, chewy oat base and rich, creamy Nutella that feels like a comforting hug in dessert form. As I pulled the warm bars out of the oven, the heavenly aroma of toasted oats mingled with the nutty scent of hazelnuts, instantly lifting my spirits.
This recipe emerged from a simple quest for a quick dessert, a way to sidestep the blandness of fast food and bring homemade magic back to my kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these bars promise to impress both friends and family. Plus, they pack all the flavors you crave in a way that’s effortlessly elegant yet downright comforting. So, let’s dive into making these irresistible bars that are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth!
Why are Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars a must-try?
Irresistible combination of flavors: The rich Nutella pairs exquisitely with the nutty taste of hazelnuts and the wholesome oats.
Quick to prepare: With just 25 minutes of active prep time, you can whip up this heavenly dessert in no time!
Perfectly balanced: These bars strike the ideal balance of chewy and crunchy, making each bite a delightful experience.
Family favorite: Whether for an afternoon snack or a sweet ending to dinner, they’re sure to become a go-to treat for everyone.
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the nuts or add extra chocolate chips for a personalized twist. Enjoy these delicious Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars that are sure to wow your taste buds!
Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up these delightful Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars!
For the Base
- All-purpose flour – this forms the foundation of your crumble texture.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – adds chewiness and heartiness to each bite.
- Coarse sea salt – enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Baking soda – gives your bars a slight lift and nice texture.
- Butter – melted, it creates a rich, buttery flavor that binds the mixture.
- Brown sugar – imparts a deeper sweetness with a hint of caramel.
- Vanilla extract – adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Topping
- Nutella – the star ingredient that creates a heavenly, creamy layer.
- Hazelnuts – with skins removed, they bring a satisfying crunch and nutty richness to the bars.
Get ready to gather these simple yet essential ingredients and create a dessert that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars
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Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures the bars cook evenly, giving them that perfect golden color.
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Line a 20 x 20cm (8 x 8 inch) baking dish with non-stick baking paper. This will make it easier to remove your delightful bars later.
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Mix the flour, rolled oats, salt, and baking soda in a medium-sized bowl. Make sure to combine everything well for consistent flavor throughout.
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Melt your butter. In another bowl, combine it with the vanilla extract and brown sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy.
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Combine both mixtures together, stirring until fully blended. This creates the delicious base for your Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars.
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Press about ¾ of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared tin, saving roughly 100g or ½ cup for topping later. This creates a stable foundation for your bars.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. You want the base to set slightly, so it holds up under the Nutella layer.
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Mix Nutella and chopped hazelnuts in a small bowl. If the Nutella is too thick, microwave it briefly to achieve a smoother consistency.
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Spread the Nutella mixture evenly over the baked base. This layer should be rich and generous for the best flavor.
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Crumble the reserved mixture over the top of the Nutella, making sure to cover it well. This will create a delightful texture contrast.
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Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes. Cook until the topping is golden brown and fragrant, tempting everyone nearby!
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Cool the bars on your countertop for about 30 minutes. This allows them to firm up nicely for cutting later.
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Chill the bars in the fridge for 30 minutes or until completely cool. This will enhance their texture and make them easier to slice.
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Cut the slice into squares before serving. Enjoy your delicious Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars with family and friends!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these bars to match your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
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Nut-Free: Swap hazelnuts for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a tasty nut-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
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Vegan: Use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup in place of brown sugar to create a plant-based version.
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Extra Chocolatey: Fold in chocolate chips or cacao nibs into the base mixture for an irresistible chocolate boost.
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Fruit-Filled: Add dried fruit like cranberries or chopped dates to the base for a sweet surprise in every bite. The chewy texture of dried fruits adds a delightful twist!
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Spiced Oats: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the base for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the Nutella beautifully.
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Decadent Drizzle: Melt extra chocolate and drizzle it over the top before serving for a show-stopping presentation and rich indulgence.
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Heat it Up: A sprinkle of sea salt or a pinch of chili powder can elevate the flavors, adding a surprising kick that balances the sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the oat base and the Nutella-hazelnut mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix and press the base into the baking dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The Nutella mixture can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or in the fridge if you plan to prep for longer.
When you’re ready to bake, simply follow the remaining instructions by spreading the Nutella mix over the prepped base, crumbling the reserved topping, and popping it back in the oven. Your Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars will be just as delicious, saving you time during your busy week!
Expert Tips for Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars
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Chill the Nutella: Microwaving Nutella for just a few seconds helps spread it easily over the base. Avoid overheating, which can make it too runny.
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Press Firmly: Ensure you press the base mixture into the baking dish firmly. This helps it hold together, preventing crumbling when slicing the Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars.
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Even Baking: Check the bars a few minutes before the baking time is up. Oven temperatures can vary, and you want a beautifully golden topping, not burnt edges.
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Cooling Time Matters: Letting the bars cool completely allows them to set better, making them easier to cut. Patience pays off for perfect slices!
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Nuts Optional: If you don’t have hazelnuts, feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts or even coconut for a delicious variation on these scrumptious bars.
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week. Just allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy a sweet treat whenever you crave.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bars in the fridge overnight or microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their delightful soft texture.
What to Serve with Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars?
Whether you’re indulging in a cozy night at home or hosting friends for a gathering, pairing these bars with complementary flavors can elevate your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the chewy bars, making each bite a delightful treat.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Espresso: A shot of bold espresso showcases the Nutella beautifully, creating a harmonious balance between sweet and bitter notes.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the bars amplifies the indulgence, making them even more irresistible for chocolate lovers.
- Nutty Whipped Cream: Whipped cream infused with finely chopped hazelnuts gives an added richness, while also echoing the nutty flavor of the bars.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel creates an incredible sweet-and-salty experience, perfect for those who crave a touch of decadence.
For a lovely afternoon treat, consider serving these Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars with a refreshing mint tea, which provides a light, contrasting flavor to complement the richness.
Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of hazelnuts should I use?
I recommend using hazelnuts with the skins removed for a smoother texture and more pronounced flavor in your Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars. You can find them in most grocery stores or online. If unavailable, feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans—just chop them roughly for that satisfying crunch!
How should I store leftover bars?
To keep your Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Remember to let them reach room temperature before enjoying them for the best taste!
Can I freeze Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore their delightful soft texture.
My bars seem too crumbly after baking; what went wrong?
If your Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars are more crumbly than desired, it could be due to not pressing the base mixture firmly enough into the baking dish or using too much flour. Make sure to pack the base tightly into the dish before baking for a firmer texture. Additionally, avoid overbaking to maintain that chewy consistency!
What if I have a nut allergy; can I make these bars nut-free?
Yes! You can make nut-free Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars by using a nut-free chocolate spread instead of Nutella. There are many delicious alternatives available that are just as creamy and flavorful! Ensure that other ingredients, like oats, are processed in a nut-free facility if you have severe allergies.
Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free option?
Very! You can replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative to make the Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars dairy-free. This will give the bars a lovely texture while allowing everyone to enjoy them, regardless of dietary preferences.
Nutella Oatmeal Crumble Bars That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Line a 20 x 20cm (8 x 8 inch) baking dish with non-stick baking paper.
- Mix the flour, rolled oats, salt, and baking soda in a medium-sized bowl.
- Melt your butter. In another bowl, combine it with the vanilla extract and brown sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy.
- Combine both mixtures together, stirring until fully blended.
- Press about ¾ of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared tin, saving roughly 100g or ½ cup for topping later.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
- Mix Nutella and chopped hazelnuts in a small bowl.
- Spread the Nutella mixture evenly over the baked base.
- Crumble the reserved mixture over the top of the Nutella.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
- Cool the bars on your countertop for about 30 minutes.
- Chill the bars in the fridge for 30 minutes or until completely cool.
- Cut the slice into squares before serving.