Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until you achieve a crumbly mixture.
- Create the base: Reserve half of this mixture to use later as a topping. Press the remaining half firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Layer with chocolate: Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the crust, and then crumble the reserved mixture on top of them.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Cool and cut: Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Best ways to enjoy it
These chocolate chip muffin crumb bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Pair them with a fresh fruit salad for breakfast, or accompany them with a rich espresso for an indulgent afternoon pick-me-up. For a touch of elegance, consider drizzling them with a simple chocolate ganache or dusting them with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your chocolate chip muffin crumb bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their life, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm them briefly in the oven.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best texture, make sure not to overmix the batter—mix just until combined. This will keep your bars tender and crumbly. If you want an extra crunch on top, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of coconut flakes to the reserved topping mixture. Additionally, if you prefer a deeper chocolate flavor, swapping half of the chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips is a fantastic option!
Creative twists
There are countless ways to add your personal touch to these chocolate chip muffin crumb bars. Incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can bring an entirely new flavor dimension. You could even swap out chocolate chips for other add-ins such as dried fruits, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips for a special twist. For a seasonal touch, try adding pumpkin puree during the fall or lemon zest in the summer for a refreshing citrus note.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for these bars?
The prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, making it quick and hassle-free!
Can I substitute the oats?
Yes! For a different texture, you can replace rolled oats with quick-cooking oats or other grain flakes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Now that you have all the information, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy your chocolate chip muffin crumb bars and the smile they bring to your face!
