1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Oatmeal Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and well incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Fold in the old-fashioned oats until a thick dough forms.

3. Prepare the Fudge Filling

In a saucepan over low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter.

Stir continuously until the mixture melts and becomes smooth.

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.

4. Assemble the Bars

Press two-thirds of the oatmeal dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the base layer.

Pour the warm chocolate fudge mixture over the base and spread evenly.

Crumble the remaining oatmeal dough over the top to create a rustic topping.

5. Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the top is set.

6. Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps the fudge layer set properly and creates clean slices.

Cut into squares and serve.