Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The blend of oats, cinnamon, and raisins offers a warm, nostalgic taste.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
• Versatile: Customize with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup raisins

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Baking Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with baking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the oats and raisins. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
6. Bake: Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the edges are golden.
7. Cool: Let the bars cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
8. Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and optional maple extract. Mix until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
9. Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 16 bars.
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18–20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 35–40 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Incorporate chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free Frosting: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based cream for the frosting.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual bars in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking oats?

Yes, old-fashioned oats can be used; they will add a slightly chewier texture to the bars.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make these bars without raisins?

Absolutely! You can substitute raisins with chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts.

How do I prevent the bars from being too dry?

Ensure you don’t overbake the bars; they should be soft in the center when you take them out. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Conclusion

These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic cookie, combining chewy oats and raisins with a sweet maple-cinnamon frosting. They’re perfect for any occasion and sure to become a family favorite.

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