Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are like a warm hug from Grandma wrapped in a chewy, sweet embrace. Picture this: You take a bite, and your taste buds are instantly greeted by the creamy sweetness of brown sugar, the comforting chewiness of oats, and the delightful pop of juicy raisins. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that transports you back to your childhood kitchen, where the smell of freshly baked goodies fills the air.
Now, let’s set the scene. Imagine a cozy afternoon spent with friends or family, laughter ringing through the house as you all eagerly await your treats. These cookie bars are perfect for any occasion—be it a casual get-together, a bake sale, or simply satisfying that sweet tooth after a long day. With each square you cut, anticipation builds for that amazing flavor explosion that awaits.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These oatmeal raisin cookie bars are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
- Their rich flavor profile combines sweetness with hearty oats and juicy raisins.
- The golden-brown color and chewy texture make them visually appealing at any gathering.
- Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed warm or cold!
Ingredients for Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Old-Fashioned Oats: These oats provide the chewy texture that makes these bars so satisfying. Avoid quick oats for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps bind everything together. Use unbleached flour for a more natural flavor.
- Baking Soda: This ingredient gives the cookie bars their rise and fluffy texture.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors in these delicious bars.
- Brown Sugar: The star sweetener here! It adds moisture and rich caramel notes.
- Granulated Sugar: Just a bit to balance out the brown sugar’s deep flavors.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a rich base for these bars. Ensure it’s at room temperature before mixing.
- Egg: A large egg acts as a binder, holding everything together beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: This adds an aromatic sweetness that elevates the entire recipe.
- Raisins: Sweet bites of goodness that provide delightful bursts of flavor in every square.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and lightly grease it with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside—trust me; it’ll be worth it!
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl (a mixing bowl works perfectly), cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because we want that airy texture in our cookie bars!
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated into your buttery mixture. You should see those flavors meld together like old friends at a reunion!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry ingredient mix into the wet ingredients. Fold everything together gently until just combined—do not overmix or you’ll end up with tough bars!
Step 6: Fold in Raisins
Gently fold in those plump raisins until evenly distributed throughout the batter. It’s like adding little gems of joy into your cookie bars!
Transfer this mixture into your prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Once baked, let them cool slightly before cutting into squares.
Serve these delightful oatmeal raisin cookie bars warm with a scoop of ice cream on top or enjoy them straight from the pan like I do—no judgment here! Each bite will remind you why you fell in love with homemade treats in the first place!
You Must Know
- These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are not just delicious; they also offer a fantastic treat for any occasion.
- With a chewy texture and sweet bursts of raisins, these bars are perfect for snacking or dessert.
- Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to eat!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing dry ingredients first, then cream together your sugars and butter until fluffy. Fold in the oats and raisins last for an even distribution. Bake until golden brown and allow them to cool before cutting into bars—trust me, patience is key!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the raisins for chocolate chips or nuts if you’re feeling adventurous. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract adds great flavor. You can also use whole wheat flour for a healthier twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped. Reheat in the microwave for about ten seconds before enjoying that soft, gooey goodness again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture, make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with sugar.
- Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the oats and raisins to keep your bars chewy.
- Letting them cool completely helps them set perfectly before cutting.
Sometimes, I whip up these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars when I have friends over, and the compliments never stop pouring in—everyone thinks I’m some sort of baking wizard!
FAQs:
What ingredients are needed for Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
To make delicious oatmeal raisin cookie bars, you will need rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and raisins. If you prefer a healthier twist, consider using coconut oil instead of butter. Additionally, you can substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. These ingredients combine to create a chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of raisins.
How do I store Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
To keep your oatmeal raisin cookie bars fresh and flavorful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for about one week if kept properly. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I add nuts to Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
Absolutely! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can enhance the flavor and texture of your oatmeal raisin cookie bars. Simply chop your desired nuts and fold them into the dough along with the raisins. This addition not only provides a delightful crunch but also adds healthy fats and proteins to your snack. Experiment with different types of nuts for unique variations that suit your taste.
Are Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars healthy?
Oatmeal raisin cookie bars can be a healthier treat compared to traditional cookies when made with wholesome ingredients. Rolled oats provide fiber and essential nutrients while reducing refined sugars can make them even better for you. Using natural sweeteners and substituting butter with healthier fats like coconut oil enhances their nutritional profile as well. Enjoy these bars as an occasional snack or dessert while maintaining a balanced diet.
Conclusion for Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars:
In conclusion, oatmeal raisin cookie bars are a delightful treat that combines wholesome ingredients for a satisfying snack. With rolled oats providing nutrition and flexibility in adding ingredients like nuts or alternative sweeteners, these bars cater to various tastes. Storing them properly ensures you can enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week or even longer if frozen. Try making these oatmeal raisin cookie bars today for a chewy, flavorful indulgence that everyone will love!
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Irresistible Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe to Try!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
Chewy, golden, and packed with flavor, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a nostalgic treat with a soft, satisfying bite. Featuring hearty oats, sweet raisins, and warm brown sugar, they’re perfect for an afternoon snack or a cozy dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (unbleached)
- ½ tsp Baking Soda
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¾ cup Brown Sugar, packed
- ¼ cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter, softened
- 1 Large Egg
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ¾ cup Raisins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the raisins.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
