I can hardly contain my excitement when talking about Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars! These delightful treats are a staple in my baking repertoire, and they hold a special place in my heart because they remind me of cozy afternoons spent in my grandma’s kitchen. I can still picture her flour-dusted apron and the sweet aroma wafting through the house as these bars baked, filling the air with warmth and comfort.
What I love most about these bars is how perfectly chewy and satisfying they are. Whether I whip them up for a weekend treat or to share with friends during a gathering, they never fail to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Plus, the combination of oats, cinnamon, and sweet, plump raisins makes for a nostalgic flavor profile that I can’t resist. So, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into this fun and easy recipe!
What’s in Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
Old-Fashioned Oats: The star of the show! Old-fashioned oats give these bars a wonderful chewy texture and a wholesome feel. I recommend using rolled oats instead of instant for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of our bars, but feel free to swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added health benefits.
Brown Sugar: This adds rich sweetness and moisture. The molasses in brown sugar gives the bars a deeper flavor that pairs beautifully with the oats and cinnamon.
Granulated Sugar: Just a touch of granulated sugar balances the brown sugar and ensures sweetness throughout.
Butter: I love using unsalted butter for control over salt content, and you’ll want it softened for easier mixing. It makes everything taste better, right?
Eggs: These provide structure and stability to the bars. They also help keep them wonderfully moist.
Cinnamon: A hint of this aromatic spice makes the flavors sing! It brings warmth and an inviting aroma that’s hard to beat.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Raisins: The classic addition! You can substitute them with chocolate chips or dried cranberries if you’re feeling adventurous. I promise they’re still delicious!
Is Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Good for You?
Absolutely! These bars offer numerous benefits if you enjoy them in moderation.
Oats: Rich in fiber, oats can help keep you full longer and may even help lower cholesterol levels. Plus, they provide sustained energy, making them a great snack!
Raisins: They come packed with antioxidants and provide some natural sweetness, which means less added sugar overall.
However, keep in mind that while they’re healthier than many other desserts, they do contain sugar and butter, so it’s best to enjoy them as part of a balanced diet.
Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 cups old-fashioned oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup raisins (or your choice of add-ins)
This recipe makes about 12 to 16 cookie bars, depending on how you cut them.
How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the raisins (or your preferred add-ins) gently.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
8. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares or rectangles.
Sweet Suggestions: Enhancements and Variations
– Feeling a bit wild? Try adding some chopped nuts in there for a bit of crunch—a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans works wonders!
– If you want to switch things up, consider adding chocolate chips along with the raisins for a delightful twist.
– For a deeper flavor, try toasting the oats slightly before mixing. This extra step adds a lovely nuttiness that elevates the bars even more.
I hope you have as much fun making these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars as I do! They really are a perfect companion for coffee in the morning or a sweet treat in the afternoon. If you try them out, please let me know how it goes! Happy baking!
