O. Henry Bars
📜 Collection: Georgia Collection | ✍️ Attribution: Unattributed | 📂 Category: Desserts A classic mid-century dessert bar featuring a chewy, caramelized oat crust topped with a rich, melted chocolate and chunky peanut butter glaze. Perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or an easy afternoon treat.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Inactive / Chill Time | Yield / Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 15 mins | 1 hr | 24 bars |
🔪 Key Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
Oat Crust
| Measurements | Ingredients | Prep / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4 cups | Oats | |
| 1 cup | Oleo | margarine or butter |
| 1 cup | Brown Sugar | |
| 1/2 cup | White Corn Syrup |
Chocolate Peanut Butter Topping
| Measurements | Ingredients | Prep / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 12 oz | Chocolate Chips | |
| 1/2 cup | Chunky Peanut Butter |
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the 4 cups oats, 1 cup oleo, 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup white corn syrup.
- Spread and press the mixture evenly into the greased 9x13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Add the Topping
- In a small saucepan over low heat (or in a microwave-safe bowl), melt the 12 oz chocolate chips and 1/2 cup chunky peanut butter together, stirring constantly until completely smooth and combined.
- Spread the warm chocolate-peanut butter mixture evenly over the top of the baked oat crust.
- Allow the bars to cool completely until the topping is firm and set, then cut into squares.
💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
Original Recipe Scan
