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Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

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These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of chewy oats, sweet raisins, and warm cinnamon, topped with a luscious maple-cinnamon frosting. Easy to make and versatile, they are ideal for family gatherings, snacks, or cozy evenings at home.

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
  • 12 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Baking Pan:

    • Preheat the 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 ingredients to the wet mixture, 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!

Notes

  • Storage: Store 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.
  • Variations:
    • Add chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
    • For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
    • Make a dairy-free frosting by using plant-based butter and cream.