Description
Homemade “Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars” blend classic comfort with irresistible sweetness, offering a delightful twist on traditional cookies. Chewy, spiced bars packed with plump raisins promise a nostalgic treat that will transport you to grandma’s kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups quick-cooking oats
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
Spices and Seasonings:
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
Leavening Agent:
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Assemble all kitchen tools: mixing bowls, whisk, electric mixer, 9×9-inch baking pan, parchment paper, and cooling rack.
- Warm the oven to 350°F and prepare the baking pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients including flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl, whisking thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until the mixture becomes pale and airy, using an electric mixer for approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate eggs individually, mixing completely after each addition, then blend in vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined to prevent overmixing.
- Carefully fold in rolled oats and raisins, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared pan, spreading it uniformly with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, watching for golden-brown edges as a doneness indicator.
- Remove from oven and allow bars to rest in the pan for 5-10 minutes to set slightly.
- Transfer bars to a wire rack, letting them cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare frosting by whipping butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, then add maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and optional maple extract.
- Beat frosting until it reaches a light, spreadable consistency.
- Once bars are completely cooled, generously spread frosting across the surface.
- Slice into square portions and serve.
Notes
- Choose gluten-free flour or oat alternatives for those with wheat sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delectable bars.
- Toast oats briefly before mixing to enhance their nutty flavor and create a deeper, more complex taste profile in the cookie bars.
- Consider substituting raisins with dried cranberries or chocolate chips for exciting flavor variations that cater to different preferences.
- Reduce sugar content by using half brown sugar and half natural sweetener like stevia for a healthier version without compromising deliciousness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg