Line your square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy removal. This makes it simple to lift out the set squares.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oats, salt, and any add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture.
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter or coconut oil along with honey, stirring until smooth and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the melted mixture from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This gives a warm aroma to your mixture.
Pour the wet mixture over the dry oats, then stir everything together thoroughly until the oats are evenly coated and sticky.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared dish, using a spatula to press it down firmly and evenly across the surface. You want a compact, even layer.
Place the dish in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set. This helps it hold together when sliced.
Once set, lift the mixture out of the dish using the parchment overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or bars with a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. These squares are chewy, sticky, and perfect for a quick sweet fix.
