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Walnut Oh Henry Bars

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Walnut Oh Henry Bars combine a chewy, buttery oat and walnut base with a smooth, rich chocolate-peanut butter topping. These easy make-ahead bars are perfect for dessert trays, holidays, parties, or an afternoon treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for the topping
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, optional for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and corn syrup until smooth and thoroughly mixed. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Add the rolled oats, 1 cup chopped walnuts, and salt. Stir until the oats are evenly coated and the walnuts are well distributed.
  4. Transfer the oat mixture to the prepared pan and press it firmly into an even layer, reaching all the corners.
  5. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden while the center remains slightly soft.
  6. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the oat base to cool for 15–20 minutes.
  7. Place the chocolate chips, peanut butter, and 2 tablespoons butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in short intervals, stirring after each interval, until completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the ingredients gently in a saucepan over low heat while stirring constantly.
  8. Pour the chocolate-peanut butter mixture over the oat base and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  9. Sprinkle the optional 1/2 cup chopped walnuts over the chocolate topping while it is still soft.
  10. Allow the bars to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate until the chocolate-peanut butter topping is completely firm.
  11. Use the parchment overhang to lift the chilled bars from the pan. Let them stand briefly at room temperature, then cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife.

Notes

  • Toast the walnuts before using for deeper nutty flavor and extra crunch.
  • Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the chewiest texture, although quick oats can be used for a softer base.
  • Dark chocolate can replace some or all of the semisweet chocolate for a less-sweet, richer topping.
  • Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter, more candy-like variation.
  • A thin caramel layer can be added between the cooled oat base and chocolate-peanut butter topping.
  • Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate before it sets for a salty-sweet finish.
  • Chopped peanuts can be added along with the walnuts for additional crunch.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days in a cool kitchen or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze the bars with parchment between the layers for up to 2–3 months.
  • For clean slices, chill until firm, let stand for a few minutes, and wipe a sharp knife clean between cuts.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/walnut-oh-henry-bars/