December 13, 2011
Chocolate Oat Bars
Chef Courtney Contos
Culinary Coach and Food Writer
Makes 12-16 bars
Ingredients:
Bottom Crust:
- 3 cups quick cooking rolled oats
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup hot water
Topping:
- 2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 cup oat bran
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350. In a small bowl, mix the oats, maple syrup, salt, and water. Press the mixture evenly into an oiled 9x13 inch baking sheet. Press the mixture into the baking pan (plastic wrap help with this). Bake 10 minutes, set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine all the topping ingredients. Pulse the mixture in a food processor a few times until sticky. Place the topping over the oat crust; using another sheet of plastic wrap, cover the topping and press down. Remove plastic and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Cut while warm. These are best served at room temperature or warm.
Recipe adapted from "The Chicago Diner Cookbook."
