If you're a fan of classic oatmeal raisin cookies, then you’re going to love these oatmeal raisin cookie bars! They’re everything you adore about the traditional cookie—chewy oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon—wrapped up in a convenient bar form. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and a great option for baking in bulk, these bars are super easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Oatmeal raisin cookie bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re baking for a family get-together, a quick snack, or simply to indulge in your favorite dessert, these bars hit all the right notes. They’re chewy, soft, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For these oatmeal raisin cookie bars, you don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup raisins (or more, depending on preference)
These simple ingredients come together to create a chewy, flavorful bar with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these bars is super simple! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have delicious oatmeal raisin cookie bars in no time.
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or greasing it lightly. This ensures your bars don’t stick and come out perfectly baked.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will give your bars that perfect texture!
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Once mixed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Add Oats and Raisins
Stir in the rolled oats and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. You can add extra raisins if you like your bars extra fruity!
6. Bake the Bars
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Tips for the Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
- Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: For that classic chewy texture, always use old-fashioned rolled oats. Instant oats can result in a mushy consistency.
- Add Nuts: If you love a little crunch, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a nutty twist.
- Chill the Dough: If you want to make the dough ahead of time, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Chilled dough will help prevent the bars from spreading too much during baking.
- Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bars. They should look golden on top and firm around the edges when done.
Healthier Version of Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
If you’re looking to make these bars a bit healthier, you can substitute some ingredients:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Less Sugar: Cut back on the sugar to reduce the sweetness while still maintaining flavor.
- Add Chia Seeds or Flaxseeds: For an extra health boost, mix in some chia seeds or ground flaxseeds. They’ll add omega-3s and fiber to your bars.
How to Store Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Store your oatmeal raisin cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to layer parchment paper between the bars to keep them from sticking together.
Conclusion
These oatmeal raisin cookie bars are the perfect blend of chewy oats, sweet raisins, and a touch of cinnamon—ideal for a quick treat or sharing with friends and family. With an easy recipe and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a batch of these irresistible bars anytime. Whether you’re baking for an occasion or simply looking for a snack, these oatmeal raisin cookie bars will never disappoint.
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