Description: These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, offering a chewy, comforting treat in an easy-to-make bar form. Packed with wholesome oats, plump raisins, and a warm cinnamon spice, these bars are perfect for an afternoon snack, a lunchbox treat, or a sweet ending to any meal. The luscious brown sugar frosting adds a layer of indulgence that complements the hearty texture of the base, making these bars irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Enjoy the satisfying blend of flavors and textures in every bite of these homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars.
Ingredients:
For the Bars:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 1/4 cups raisins
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, or line the dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars after baking. This prevents the bars from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, which will result in a tender and well-risen bar.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated into the mixture to avoid any eggy taste and to achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is important for proper leavening and flavor throughout the bars.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough bars.
Step 6: Stir in the old-fashioned oats and raisins until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Make sure the oats and raisins are well-coated, ensuring that they are uniformly dispersed in the finished bars.
Step 7: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or your hands to smooth the top of the batter, ensuring that it is uniformly thick across the dish.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center of the bars should come out with only a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 9: Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before frosting. Cooling allows the bars to firm up and prevents the frosting from melting.
Step 10: While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it is completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 11: Add the milk to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat immediately after boiling.
Step 12: Whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps of powdered sugar remaining.
Step 13: Let the frosting cool slightly before spreading it evenly over the cooled bars. This allows the frosting to thicken slightly, making it easier to spread.
Step 14: If desired, garnish with a few extra raisins for a decorative touch.
Step 15: Let the frosting set completely before slicing the bars into squares. This will prevent the frosting from smearing when cutting.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a perfect blend of comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. The soft, chewy texture combined with the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon and the sweet burst of raisins create a satisfying and nostalgic experience. Not only are these bars incredibly delicious, but they are also easy to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, packing lunchboxes, or simply craving a sweet treat, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are sure to become a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars as an afternoon snack with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a tasty and wholesome treat.
- Cut them into smaller squares and serve as part of a dessert platter at parties or gatherings.
- Warm a bar slightly in the microwave and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Pair them with fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears, for a balanced and satisfying snack.
Tips:
- For extra plump and juicy raisins, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the batter. Drain them well before using.
- To enhance the nutty flavor, toast the oats lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat before adding them to the batter. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- If you prefer a chewier texture, underbake the bars slightly. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nuttier flavor and added crunch.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving, approximately 1 bar) Calories: 320 kcal Protein: 4g Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars offer a delightful combination of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to make and satisfying to eat, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack, packing them in lunchboxes, or serving them at a party, the chewy texture, warm spices, and sweet raisins will leave everyone wanting more. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake up a batch of these delicious Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars today!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats? While old-fashioned oats are recommended for their texture and chewiness, you can use quick oats in a pinch. However, be aware that the bars may have a slightly different consistency, potentially being a bit more dense. If using quick oats, consider reducing the amount by about 1/4 cup, as they absorb more moisture than old-fashioned oats.
- Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add about 1/2 teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients for a better texture. Additionally, check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
- Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe? Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture and sweetness of the bars. You can reduce the brown sugar and granulated sugar by about 1/4 cup each without significantly altering the outcome. Alternatively, consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the liquid content accordingly.
- How do I prevent the bars from becoming too dry? To prevent the bars from becoming too dry, ensure that you measure the flour accurately and avoid overbaking. Use a light hand when measuring the flour, and do not pack it into the measuring cup. Bake the bars until they are just set in the center, and remove them from the oven promptly. Letting them cool completely in the pan will also help retain moisture.
- Can I freeze these bars? Yes, these bars freeze very well. Allow the bars to cool completely after baking and frosting. Cut them into individual squares, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until solid. Then, transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
