Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

Name: Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 cup raisins

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: August 15, 2025

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Introduction to Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

Life can often feel like a whirlwind, especially for busy moms and professionals like us. That’s why I absolutely adore baking these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars. They’re not just any sweet treat; they are my go-to solution for those days when time slips away. The chewy, wholesome blend of oats and sweet bursts of raisins melts into a delightful bar that will impress your loved ones. This recipe is wonderfully simple yet satisfying, perfect for dessert or an afternoon snack. Trust me; your taste buds won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

Let’s face it, life gets busy, and we need desserts that don’t add to the chaos. These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are the answer! They come together in just 15 minutes of prep time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with family. The chewy texture and delicious flavor make them delightful, plus they’re ideal for snacking or dessert. This recipe makes sweet indulgence easy and satisfying for everyone!

Ingredients for Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the heart of this recipe. For these scrumptious Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars, you’ll need a handful of staples that most baking enthusiasts already have in their kitchens.

Unsalted butter: Make sure it’s soft for easy mixing. It adds tenderness and rich flavor.
Brown sugar: This sweet, moist sugar gives that lovely chewy texture.
Granulated sugar: A classic sweetener that helps with lift and sweetness.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients while adding moisture.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm aroma and depth of flavor, making everything better!
All-purpose flour: The base ingredient that holds everything together.
Baking soda: This leavening agent helps your bars rise and become fluffy.
Cinnamon: A dash of this warms up the flavor, transporting you to cozy, nostalgic moments.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the different flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Old-fashioned oats: They provide that chewy texture we all love!
Raisins: Sweet, plump bites that add a lovely burst of flavor in every bar.

Feeling adventurous? Consider adding optional ingredients like chocolate chips for a decadent twist or nuts for extra crunch! If you need alternatives, you can swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or apricots for a fun variation.

The exact measurements you need are conveniently located at the bottom of the article, all ready for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into making these delightful Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars! Baking is like a dance; each step leads you closer to a delicious treat. Follow me along this journey, and I’ll share helpful tips to ensure your bars turn out scrumptious!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures our bars bake evenly. A hot oven is essential for that perfect texture!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. This process should take about 2-3 minutes, yielding a light and fluffy mixture. This is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the two large eggs, along with the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is nice and smooth. The eggs add moisture and help bind the ingredients, while vanilla gives warmth to the overall flavor.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This dry mix helps to distribute the leavening agent and spices evenly throughout the batter. You want every bite of your Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars to be full of flavor!

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I like to do this in batches; it makes it easier to combine without over-mixing. Once combined, stir in your old-fashioned oats and raisins. This is where the bars start to take shape, chunky and inviting!

Step 6: Spread the Batter

Now, it’s time to spread your batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Use a spatula for this; it’ll give you a nice, even layer. Don’t worry if it’s a bit thick; it spreads well as it bakes!

Step 7: Bake the Bars

Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want golden brown edges and a slightly soft center. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake!

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely. This will take about 20 minutes. Patience is key! When they’re cool, cut them into squares with a sharp knife. Now, you’re ready to delve into the sweet, chewy goodness of Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars!

Tips for Success

Always use softened butter for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
Measure your ingredients accurately for consistent results.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set perfectly.
For extra flavor, toast your oats or nuts before adding them.
Cut the bars with a sharp knife for clean edges.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes for combining ingredients.
Hand mixer or stand mixer: To cream the butter and sugars quickly. A whisk will work too!
Baking pan: A 9×13-inch pan is ideal, but a smaller pan can work, just adjust baking time.
Spatula: Perfect for spreading the batter evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient amounts.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch.
Chocolate Lovers: Toss in some chocolate chips or chunks for a sweet surprise in every bite!
Fruit Medley: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries, apricots, or cherries for a flavorful twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these bars friendly for those with dietary restrictions.
Spiced Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a festive flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan butter to make these perfect for a plant-based diet.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Serve with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a cozy snack break.
For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving.
Cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters for special occasions!

FAQs about Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

When it comes to baking these delightful Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars, I often get a few common questions. Here are some answers that might help you on your baking journey!

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

It’s best to stick with old-fashioned oats for this recipe. They create that chewy texture we all love. Quick oats can make the bars a bit mushy, so I recommend saving them for another recipe!

How should I store my Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?

Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to two weeks. They freeze well too!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are great for prepping in advance. Just bake, cool, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll only get better as the flavors mingle over time.

What can I substitute for eggs if I want to make them vegan?

You can replace each egg with a tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it gels, and you’ll be good to go!

Can I add more ingredients without changing the texture?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or other dried fruits. Just be cautious not to overload the batter, as it could affect the texture. A handful of extras should do the trick!

Final Thoughts

Baking these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars has become one of my favorite culinary adventures. They capture the essence of home-baked goodness, filling the kitchen with warmth and delightful aromas. Each bite transports me back to cherished family moments, where laughter and love abound.

This recipe is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating experiences and memories. As you whip up these bars, take a moment to appreciate the joy that comes from sharing them with loved ones. With each chewy, flavorful bite, you’re gifting them a little piece of happiness. Enjoy every moment!