Weight Watchers Chocolate Oatmeal Revel Bars Recipe
When it comes to satisfying a sweet tooth while sticking to a health-conscious plan, Weight Watchers has a variety of recipes that hit the mark. One standout is the Chocolate Oatmeal Revel Bars, a delightful treat that balances indulgence with mindful eating. Let’s dive into the detailed recipe and its benefits.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather these ingredients:
- Oats: 2 cups of old-fashioned oats
- Flour: 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Butter: 1 cup (softened)
- Brown sugar: 1 1/2 cups
- Eggs: 2 large eggs
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
- Sweetened condensed milk: 14 ounces
- Semisweet chocolate chips: 2 cups
- Nuts: 1 cup of your choice (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the batter.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, mix together the oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture in your bars.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well incorporated.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
6. Prepare the Chocolate Layer
In a saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips with the sweetened condensed milk. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
7. Layer the Bars
Spread about two-thirds of the oat mixture into a greased baking pan. Press it down firmly to create an even layer. Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the oat layer, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture on top, and if you’re using nuts, scatter them over the top layer.
8. Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.
Nutritional Benefits
High in Fiber
The oats provide a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
Antioxidants in Chocolate
Dark chocolate chips are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and promote heart health.
Protein-Packed
Adding nuts increases the protein content, making these bars more filling and satisfying.
Tips for Making the Best Revel Bars
Use Quality Ingredients
Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and real butter to ensure the best flavor.
Customize to Your Taste
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding different types of nuts or even dried fruits.
Storage Suggestions
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Perfect Pairings
Serve with a Hot Beverage
Enjoy these bars with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage complements the rich chocolate flavor.
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
For an extra indulgent treat, serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
FAQs
1. Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.
2. Are There Dairy-Free Options?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based condensed milk substitute.
3. How Can I Reduce the Sugar Content?
You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute that fits your dietary needs.
4. Can I Add More Chocolate?
If you’re a chocolate lover, feel free to add an extra half cup of chocolate chips to the oat mixture for more chocolatey goodness.
5. What’s the Best Way to Cut the Bars?
Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares after they’ve completely cooled to ensure clean edges.
Conclusion
Weight Watchers Chocolate Oatmeal Revel Bars are a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet treat without derailing your healthy eating plan. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with ingredients that offer nutritional benefits. Whether you’re following Weight Watchers or simply looking for a delicious dessert, these bars are sure to satisfy.