Fudge Jumbles Recipe: Classic 1980s Oatmeal Chocolate Cookie Bars

Transport yourself back to the vibrant 1980s with every bite of these legendary Fudge Jumbles. If you grew up during the era of neon colors and big hair, you probably remember the excitement of finding a box of Pillsbury Fudge Jumbles mix in the grocery cart. These weren’t just ordinary cookie bars; they were a perfect marriage of chewy oatmeal cookie base and rich, fudgy chocolate topping that defined after-school snacking for an entire generation.

What made Fudge Jumbles so special was their incredible contrast of textures and flavors. The hearty oatmeal base provided substance and chew, while the glossy chocolate fudge layer delivered pure indulgence. Though Pillsbury discontinued this beloved mix just a few years after its introduction, the craving for these iconic treats never faded. Now, you can recreate these nostalgic favorites from scratch, bringing back those cherished childhood memories with every batch.

History of Fudge Jumbles Cookie Bars

As a child of the 1980s, I enjoyed Pillsbury Fudge Jumbles and have wanted to recreate this cookie bar recipe for a long time. Now, if you were a child of the 1980s or any other decade, you too can make and enjoy these cookies at home. If you’ve been searching for a good fudge jumbled Pillsbury recipe, I do believe you’ve found it.

Fudge Jumbles came from the Pillsbury boxed Fudge Jumbles mix. They were oatmeal bar cookies with a rich chocolate fudge-like layer. I have always missed these scrumptious cookies, and thanks to having some time off from work, I was able to put together a version that I hope you enjoy.

What Happened to Fudge Jumbles?

Despite these oatmeal cookie bars being so delicious, the Pillsbury boxed mix was discontinued a few years after it was introduced. But don’t worry; you don’t have to rely on Pillsbury because you now have this copycat recipe. These cookies are sweet and rich with butter, eggs, and condensed milk and will definitely satisfy your chocolate cravings.

I used higher-quality chocolate with a 70% cacao rating for this oatmeal fudge bar recipe. However, if you don’t want to do this, I recommend substituting semi-sweet chocolate chips. These oatmeal fudge bars are very firm and store well, making them perfect for bringing to a party

Ingredients

For the Oatmeal Base:

• Old-fashioned oats – Provides the classic chewy texture and hearty flavor foundation
• All-purpose flour – Creates structure and helps bind the oat mixture
• Brown sugar – Adds caramel sweetness and helps create the perfect chewy texture
• Butter – Contributes richness and helps achieve the proper consistency
• Eggs – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture
• Baking soda – Provides gentle lift and helps create the right texture
• Salt – Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness

For the Fudge Layer:

• High-quality chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips – Form the rich, glossy fudge topping
• Sweetened condensed milk – Creates a smooth, creamy texture and adds sweetness
• Butter – Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect consistency
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor with aromatic depth

1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Oatmeal Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until just combined. Stir in the old-fashioned oats until evenly distributed.

3. Form the Base Layer

Press two-thirds of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Reserve the remaining mixture for the top layer. The base should be compact but not overly compressed..

4. Prepare the Fudge Layer

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate with sweetened condensed milk and butter, stirring constantly until smooth and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.

5. Assemble the Bars

Spread the warm fudge mixture evenly over the oat base, working quickly before it begins to set. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top of the fudge layer, creating an attractive rustic topping.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. The center should still be slightly soft, as it will continue to firm up as it cools.

 7. Cool and Cut

Storage and Serving Instructions

Store Fudge Jumbles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They improve after a day, as the flavors meld and the texture settles perfectly. For longer storage, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

These bars travel exceptionally well, perfect for potlucks, bake sales, and lunch boxes. Cut them into squares just before serving for the cleanest presentation.

 

Do you love homemade cookies and bars? Try some of these favorite recipes

• Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
• Blue Cheese Cookies
• Girl Scout Lemonades
• Chinese Almond Cookie Recipe
• Hello Dolly Cookie Bar
• Mrs. Fields Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
• Spice Cookies with Pumpkin Dip
• White Chocolate Covered Oreo Cookies
• Doubletree Hotel Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Grandma’s Oatmeal Cookies
• Cranberry Bliss Bars Starbucks
• Pecan Sandies Cookies Recipe

Be sure to look at all the yummy cookie recipes and delicious comfort food.