Name: Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486871H2M25S
Total time: PT-486871H2M25S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup raisins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes the beloved oatmeal raisin cookie and turns it into a fun and easy-to-make bar. The cookie bars are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, making them the perfect snack for any time of the day. The combination of oats, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon creates a flavor-packed treat that will remind you of classic cookies, but in a more convenient form. They are perfect for sharing, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Plus, with minimal effort and just a few simple ingredients, these bars are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup raisins

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Stir in the raisins.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down into an even layer.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cut into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16 bars, depending on how large you cut them
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: Customize your oatmeal raisin cookie bars by adding other ingredients like chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut.
Dried Fruit: Switch out the raisins for dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a different twist.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the oatmeal raisin cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life (up to 1 week).
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the bars to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: Reheat the bars in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when my oatmeal raisin cookie bars are done?

The bars are done when the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should also be slightly crisp.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Old-fashioned rolled oats are recommended for the best texture, but you can substitute quick oats if necessary. However, the texture of the bars may be slightly different.

Can I substitute raisins with something else?

Yes, you can use other dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or apricots as a substitute for raisins. You can also use chocolate chips or a mix of both.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by substituting the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as margarine or coconut oil.

Can I add nuts to the bars?

Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would make a great addition to these oatmeal raisin cookie bars. Stir in about 1/2 cup of chopped nuts for added crunch.

How should I store leftover bars?

Store any leftover oatmeal raisin cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate them for up to 1 week.

Can I freeze these oatmeal raisin cookie bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to make a larger batch. Just use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.

What can I serve these bars with?

Oatmeal raisin cookie bars are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How do I make the bars chewier?

To make the bars chewier, you can slightly underbake them by removing them from the oven when they are still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

Oatmeal raisin cookie bars are a delightful and easy-to-make treat that brings the classic flavors of oatmeal cookies into a convenient bar form. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a chewy, flavorful dessert that will be loved by all. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just looking for a quick snack, these bars are a fantastic option. Experiment with different add-ins and enjoy them fresh, or store them for later indulgence!