If you have a soft spot for chewy, flavorful treats that bring a burst of warmth and nostalgia with every bite, you are going to adore this Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe. These bars blend the hearty texture of rolled oats with the natural sweetness of plump raisins and just a hint of cinnamon, all baked into one deliciously soft and chewy square. Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the classic flavors of oatmeal raisin cookies in a convenient bar form that’s easy to cut, share, and savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this ingredient list — each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Together, they create a harmonious mixture that makes these cookie bars irresistibly delicious.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and helps achieve that tender, chewy texture.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moistness and a deep caramel flavor that complements the oats and raisins.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Contributes sweetness and helps with a slight crispness on the bar’s edges.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Lends warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: Provides a hearty texture and heartiness to every bite.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Gives structure and stability to the bars.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly and keeps them tender.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a gentle spice that rounds out the sweetness beautifully.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances flavors and brightens the sweetness of the sugars and raisins.
- 1 1/2 cups raisins: Offers bursts of juicy sweetness and classic texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds crunch and a nutty depth for those who enjoy a little variety in texture.
How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper – this simple prep makes sure your bars release easily once baked, keeping them intact and looking beautiful.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is key because well-creamed butter and sugar sets the stage for that tender crumb everyone loves in an oatmeal raisin bar.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for that irresistible aroma that makes these bars so comforting and inviting.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures all the dry elements are evenly mixed, so the flavors and leavening agents distribute perfectly throughout the dough.
Step 5: Mix the Wet and Dry Together
Gradually add your oat and flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything comes together. Overmixing can toughen the bars, so gently fold until uniform for that perfect chewy texture.
Step 6: Fold in Raisins and Nuts
Now comes the best part — fold in the juicy raisins and, if you’re using them, the crunchy chopped walnuts. These add layers of flavor and texture, making each bite an exciting little adventure.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Spread the dough evenly into your prepared pan, gently pressing it down so the bars bake uniformly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell like heaven right about now!
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling period lets them set properly so when you slice them, you get clean squares instead of crumbly bits. Once cooled, cut into 16 generous servings and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Though these bars are delightful on their own, you can dress them up with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for a little extra something special. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also accentuate the warm spice notes already baked inside.
Side Dishes
Pair your oatmeal raisin cookie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create an indulgent dessert experience. For a snack, a cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk perfectly complements their chewy, sweet goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider stacking the bars on a beautiful platter alternating layers with parchment paper to keep them neat. You can also cut them into fun shapes with cookie cutters for themed events or gift them wrapped individually with a pretty ribbon for sweet homemade gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their chewy texture. If your kitchen is warm or humid, refrigerate them to keep the bars fresh, but let them return to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze oatmeal raisin cookie bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored inside a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven to revive their soft texture.
Reheating
Warm the bars in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 to 10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that freshly-baked softness and warmth. This quick step makes them taste like they just came out of the oven again.
FAQs
Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped dates work wonderfully if you want a different flavor or texture. Just use the same quantity for a similar chewy sweetness.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Not as is, since the recipe calls for all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour to make gluten-free oatmeal raisin cookie bars that are just as tasty.
Can I leave out the nuts?
Yes, the chopped walnuts are optional and can be omitted for a nut-free version. The bars will still be deliciously chewy and full of flavor without them.
What is the best way to cut these bars evenly?
Use a sharp knife and cut the bars once they have fully cooled. For perfectly even squares, score lightly before cutting all the way through, or use a ruler to guide your knife to consistent sizes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting baking time by a few minutes. Keep an eye on the bars and test with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
Final Thoughts
Making these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe is like inviting a little sunshine and comfort into your kitchen all at once. They’re straightforward to prepare, wonderfully chewy, and packed with the beloved flavors of a classic oatmeal raisin cookie in an easy-to-share bar form. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these bars will quickly become one of your favorite sweet treats. Go ahead, bake a batch today and watch everyone ask for seconds!
Print
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookie bars made with rolled oats, sweet raisins, and optional chopped walnuts. These bars combine the classic flavors of oatmeal raisin cookies into an easy-to-make pan dessert, perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or dessert. They bake to golden perfection with a tender texture and a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth, ensuring the sugar is well incorporated.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to fully combine. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices throughout the mixture.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry oat and flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
- Fold in Raisins and Walnuts: Fold the raisins and chopped walnuts (if using) into the batter to evenly distribute the add-ins throughout the dough.
- Spread Dough in Pan: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and press it down gently to create a smooth and even surface for even baking.
- Bake the Bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bars turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting to ensure they set properly and hold together.
- Serve: Once cooled, cut into 16 squares and serve as a delicious snack or dessert to enjoy the soft and chewy texture.
Notes
- You can omit the walnuts if you have a nut allergy or prefer a nut-free version.
- For a softer texture, do not overbake; remove from oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- To make the bars vegan, substitute butter with a plant-based butter and use a flax egg instead of regular eggs.
- Feel free to substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a variation in flavor.
