As the leaves turn and the air gets a little crisper, there’s nothing like the cozy scent of baked oats wafting through the kitchen. I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars—a delightful treat that wraps nostalgia in every bite. These bars are perfect for those who crave a sweet indulgence without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with scrumptious oatmeal creme pies, gooey butterscotch chips, and creamy white chocolate, they create a dessert that’s both comforting and fun to share. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, making them an excellent make-ahead snack for fall gatherings. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy a piece of sweet nostalgia while feeling the warmth of home? Are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure?
Why are these bars the ultimate treat?
Irresistible Texture: Each bite offers a delightful chewiness, creating a comforting experience that mirrors a beloved oatmeal creme pie.
Convenience at Its Core: With simple prep and baking steps, these bars come together quickly, making them perfect for busy days or spontaneous cravings.
Versatile Flavor Combinations: Whether you swap in chocolate chips or add some chopped nuts, you can easily personalize each batch to suit your taste!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for sharing at gatherings or cozy nights in, they are sure to delight both family and friends. Pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an unbeatable dessert experience! If you’re looking for more indulgent options, check out my Butterfinger Cheesecake Bars or Mini Pecan Pie Cheesecakes to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars Ingredients
For the Base
- Spice Cake Mix – Provides the base flavor and sweetness; you can switch to a vanilla or carrot cake mix for a unique twist.
- Butter (1/2 cup, melted) – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Large Egg – Binds everything together; a flax egg is a great vegan alternative.
- Old-Fashioned Oats (1/2 cup) – Contributes texture and chewiness; instant oats may not give the ideal consistency.
For the Filling
- Oatmeal Creme Pies (8, chopped) – Infuses the bars with that classic flavor; feel free to use homemade oatmeal cookies for freshness!
- Butterscotch Chips (3/4 cup) – Adds a sweet, buttery contrast; caramel chips can be substituted for a different flavor.
- White Chocolate Chips (3/4 cup) – Provides creaminess that complements the spice; dark chocolate chips can offer a richer flavor.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk (14 ounces) – Acts as a binding agent to create that gooey texture; evaporated milk plus sugar can also work as a substitute.
With these ingredients, you’re just a mix, bake, and enjoy away from delicious Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil, leaving slight overhangs for easy removal. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure your Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars come out cleanly after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, melted butter, large egg, and old-fashioned oats. Using a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon, mix the ingredients until a thick, cohesive dough forms. This will take about 2-3 minutes of stirring. The dough should be slightly sticky but hold together well, embodying a rich base for your bars.
Step 3: Press the Dough Into the Pan
Transfer the prepared dough into the bottom of your lined baking pan. Using your fingers or a spatula, spread it evenly across the bottom, ensuring it reaches all corners. This should create a solid layer that serves as the base for your Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars. Once evenly spread, bake this layer in the preheated oven for 12 minutes until it’s just set and starting to turn lightly golden.
Step 4: Layer the Fillings
After 12 minutes, carefully remove the pan from the oven. On top of your baked base, evenly distribute the chopped oatmeal creme pies, ensuring they cover the entire surface. Sprinkle both types of chocolate chips—butterscotch and white chocolate—over the top, creating a decadent layer of sweetness that will melt beautifully.
Step 5: Drizzle with Condensed Milk
Now take the sweetened condensed milk and gently drizzle it over the entire surface of the layered bars. This will not only add gooeyness but also bind the toppings together while baking. Be generous with the drizzle to achieve that delightful texture characteristic of Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars.
Step 6: Bake Until Set
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you’ll know they’re ready when the edges are bubbly and the center appears set. The top should have a beautiful, golden hue, promising a deliciously gooey treat when cooled.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once you’ve achieved the perfect bake, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This will take about 30-45 minutes. Once fully cooled, use the foil overhang to lift the bars out. Place them on a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles before serving your delightful Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars.
Storage Tips for Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars
Room Temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their gooey texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the bars in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. Just make sure they’re sealed tight!
Freezer: If you want to prolong their life, freeze the bars wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore gooeyness in your Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars.
Expert Tips for Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars
Use Old-Fashioned Oats: Ensure you use old-fashioned oats for the best chewy texture; instant oats can make the bars too mushy.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan before cutting to prevent crumbling and maintain their gooey structure.
Substitute Smartly: If you’re out of an ingredient, substitutions like coconut oil for butter or a flax egg for a vegan option work great without sacrificing flavor in your Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars.
Layering Technique: When layering, place the ingredients evenly. This ensures every bite has an even distribution of sweetness and flavor.
Storage Tips: Store remaining bars in an airtight container, enjoying them at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerating for extended freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the base layer up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the spice cake mix, melted butter, egg, and oats, then press it into the pan. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For added convenience, chop the oatmeal creme pies and chocolate chips ahead of time and store them in separate airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, layer the prepped ingredients, drizzle with sweetened condensed milk, and bake as instructed for a delicious dessert that tastes just as fresh as when you made it!
Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars and make them uniquely yours!
Chocolate Love: Swap butterscotch chips for chocolate chips for a decadent twist. You’ll love the rich chocolate flavor that complements the oats perfectly.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch. Not only do they boost texture, but they also bring a delightful nutty richness.
Vegan Delight: Substitute the egg with a flax egg to make these bars vegan, and replace butter with coconut oil. You’ll enjoy the same deliciousness without the animal products.
Homemade Sweetness: Ditch the oatmeal creme pies and use homemade oatmeal cookies instead. They’ll impart a fresh flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut for a tropical flair. This addition pairs beautifully with the spices and gives a unique depth to each bar.
Caramel Drizzle: Just before serving, drizzle with warm caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat. The gooey caramel will elevate the flavor to a new level of sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising warmth. The heat will create a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract into the base mixture for an aromatic enhancement. This simple addition will deepen the flavor and make your bars irresistible.
And if you’re craving more delightful treats, don’t miss out on my Baked Creme Brulee for a luxurious dessert experience or bring the joy of fall with Pistachio Cheesecake Bars that will soon become a family favorite!
What to Serve with Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars
Indulging in these gooey bars sets the stage for a cozy gathering or a sweet treat for yourself on a quiet afternoon.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla complements the warm, gooey bars perfectly, creating a deliciously contrasting texture.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a fluffy touch, enhancing the indulgence while balancing the sweetness of the bars.
Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte echo the oatmeal flavors, inviting the comfort of autumn to every sip and bite.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some salted caramel on top for a rich and buttery finish that elevates the dessert experience to new heights.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of berries and citrus cuts through the sweetness, adding brightness and balancing the richness of the bars.
Espresso: A shot of espresso or a rich coffee rounds out the sweetness, providing an energizing contrast that awakens the taste buds.
Chocolate Milk: Rich and creamy chocolate milk can take you back to childhood, balancing the flavors beautifully with the bars’ gooey elements.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall season with this cozy drink that echoes the warm spices in the bars, making for a harmonious pairing.
Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars Recipe FAQs
What ingredients should I look for to ensure ripeness and quality?
For the best results, use fresh ingredients for your Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars. Check that your butter is fresh and creamy, your eggs are not past their date, and the oats have no rancid smell. If you’re using oatmeal creme pies, ensure they are soft and not stale—look for cookies that are moist and pliable.
How should I store my Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars?
To keep your bars at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate them, where they can last about a week. Just make sure to seal them tightly, so they don’t dry out!
Can I freeze Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to regain that gooey goodness!
What can I do if my bars are too crumbly after cutting?
If your Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars turn out crumbly, it could be due to not allowing them to cool completely before cutting or not using enough binding ingredients. Ensure you let the bars cool in the pan for 30-45 minutes. If they break, try pressing them together gently with your hands when serving; they’ll still taste amazing!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, these bars do contain dairy and gluten. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil in place of butter and a flax egg instead of a large egg. If you’re concerned about allergies, always check ingredient labels for any potential cross-contamination with your alternatives.
Can I experiment with other ingredients in this recipe?
Very much! These bars are perfect for mixing it up. You can substitute butterscotch chips with caramel chips or dark chocolate chips for a different taste. Adding chopped nuts or dried fruit can also enhance the flavor and texture, making each batch uniquely yours!
Oatmeal Creme Pie Gooey Bars for Cozy Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it with cooking spray.
- Combine the spice cake mix, melted butter, egg, and oats in a mixing bowl until a thick dough forms.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and bake for 12 minutes until just set.
- Layer the chopped oatmeal creme pies and both types of chocolate chips on top of the baked base.
- Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk over the layered bars evenly.
- Bake for an additional 18-20 minutes until the edges are bubbly and the center is set.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for 30-45 minutes before cutting.