Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Squares

My Unexpectedly Delicious Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Squares

As a busy mom of three, finding time to bake is a luxury, not a given. My days are a whirlwind of school runs, work deadlines, and the endless cycle of laundry and meal prep. So, when I stumbled upon this recipe for Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Squares, I was initially skeptical. Another dessert? Another commitment to add to my already overflowing to-do list? But something about the simplicity of the ingredients – oats, chocolate chips, the usual suspects – drew me in. And I’m so glad it did.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ease. No complicated techniques, no obscure ingredients requiring a special trip to the gourmet grocery store. Just a straightforward combination of pantry staples that somehow magically transform into unbelievably delicious squares. The process itself is remarkably calming; the rhythmic mixing and stirring is almost meditative. It's a perfect escape, a brief respite from the chaos, yielding a wonderfully rewarding outcome.

The texture is the real star. Chewy, slightly crisp around the edges, with pockets of melted chocolate chips throughout, these squares are the epitome of comfort food. They are not overly sweet, the brown sugar providing just the right amount of caramel-like warmth. The cinnamon adds a subtle spice that elevates the overall flavour profile, creating a pleasing balance that's neither too sweet nor too plain.

I’ve found these squares to be incredibly versatile. They're perfect for a quick afternoon snack, a satisfying dessert after dinner, or even a delightful addition to a packed lunch. My kids adore them – a huge plus in my book! – and I often find myself sneaking a square (or two) while catching up on emails or tackling the mountain of paperwork that perpetually seems to accumulate on my desk.

The best part? They store wonderfully. I usually bake a batch on the weekend and keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This ensures that I always have a delightful treat readily available for those moments when I need a little pick-me-up. Or perhaps, just a moment of quiet amidst the whirlwind of motherhood.

Beyond their deliciousness and ease of preparation, these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Squares have become a symbol of self-care for me. They represent a small act of nurturing, a little indulgence that reminds me to take a break, even amidst the busyness of life. They’re a testament to the power of simple pleasures and the unexpected joy found in a perfectly baked square of goodness.

So, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dessert that won't overwhelm your already packed schedule, I highly recommend trying this recipe. It's a guaranteed winner, and it just might become your new go-to comfort food, just as it has become mine.

The adaptability of this recipe is another key aspect. Feel free to experiment! Add nuts, dried cranberries, or different types of chocolate chips to personalize the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, offering a canvas for creativity within the confines of simple ingredients. And the best part? Each variation will still result in a delightfully satisfying treat.

These Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Squares are more than just a recipe; they're a reminder to appreciate the small joys, to find moments of peace in the midst of chaos, and to indulge in the simple pleasures that make life a little sweeter. So, take a deep breath, grab your ingredients, and let the baking begin. Your taste buds – and your soul – will thank you.

Ingredients you will need:

• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup flour
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup milk (1% milk works well)
• 1 1/3 cups oats (quick oats work fine)

Enjoy your baking experience!

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 350F and spray a 9x9 baking dish with some non stick spray.
• In a bowl whisk the eggs with the brown sugar.
• Mix in the apple sauce, milk and vanilla.
• Stir in flour, oats, baking powder and cinnamon, mix well then fold in mini chocolate chips.
• Pour batter out into the baking dish and bake in the oven for approximately 35-40 minutes.
• Let cool, then use a knife to scrape around edges and remove the squares from the pan. I was able to remove as a whole and then cut into 9 equal squares.
• Keep in a sealed container, best stored in the fridge or freezer after a couple of days.