Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars: Soft, Chewy, and Irresistible
Soft, chewy oatmeal raisin cookie bars made with simple ingredients! Easy to bake, freezer-friendly, and perfect for snacking, gifting, or breakfast-on-the-go.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars:
1 ½ 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 (Optional):
½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 to 2 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in Oats and Raisins: Stir in the oats and raisins until evenly distributed. The dough will be thick.
Transfer to Pan: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down gently.
Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare Frosting (Optional): In a medium bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and maple extract (if using). Beat until creamy and spreadable.
Frost and Serve: Once the bars are cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
Toasting Oats: For a nuttier flavor, toast the oats in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant before adding them to the dough.
Add-Ins: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warm, spiced flavor.
Frosting Alternatives: Try a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.