Introduction
Who doesn’t love a soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookie? Now imagine that classic treat transformed into a thick, gooey bar that melts in your mouth. Sounds irresistible, right? These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of wholesome oats, juicy raisins, and warm spices, baked to perfection in one easy-to-make batch.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the best Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe, step by step. Whether you’re a beginner or a baking pro, this recipe is foolproof. Plus, we’ll share expert tips, variations, and troubleshooting tricks to make sure your cookie bars turn out perfect every time.
Table of contents for Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
- Introduction
- 1. Ingredients You Need
- 2. Essential Baking Tools
- 3. Step-by-Step Instructions Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe
- 4. Expert Tips for the Best Cookie Bars
- 5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 6. Delicious Variations to Try
- 7. How to Store and Freeze Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
- 8. Health Benefits of Oats and Raisins
- 9. Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Ingredients You Need
To make the best Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars, you’ll need a few pantry staples:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – For the best chewy texture.
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure.
- Brown sugar – Adds a deep, caramelized sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – Balances the flavor.
- Butter – Gives richness and softness.
- Eggs – Helps bind everything together.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth.
- Baking soda – Provides lift and fluffiness.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness.
- Raisins – The star ingredient!
- Optional: Chopped nuts or chocolate chips – For extra crunch or sweetness.
2. Essential Baking Tools
Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls – One for dry ingredients, one for wet ingredients.
- Hand or stand mixer – To cream the butter and sugar properly.
- 9×13-inch baking pan – The perfect size for thick bars.
- Parchment paper – For easy removal.
- Spatula and whisk – To mix ingredients smoothly.
- Cooling rack – To prevent sogginess.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
Step 5: Fold in Oats and Raisins
Gently mix in the oats and raisins. If using nuts or chocolate chips, add them now.
Step 6: Bake the Cookie Bars
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Hand Mixer
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup raisins plump and juicy
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the oats, raisins, and walnuts (if using).
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 22-25 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before slicing.
- Slice into bars and enjoy!
Video
Notes
4. Expert Tips for the Best Cookie Bars
- Use softened butter – Cold butter won’t cream properly.
- Don’t overmix – This can make the bars tough.
- Soak the raisins – Soak them in warm water for 10 minutes for extra plumpness.
- Line the pan with parchment – For easy removal.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: They’ll become dry and crumbly.
- Using instant oats: They change the texture.
- Skipping salt: It enhances the flavors.
6. Delicious Variations to Try
- Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Bars – Swap raisins for chocolate chips.
- Nutty Delight – Add chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Coconut Infusion – Mix in shredded coconut.
7. How to Store and Freeze Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
8. Health Benefits of Oats and Raisins
- Oats – Rich in fiber and great for heart health.
- Raisins – Packed with antioxidants and natural sweetness.
9. Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- With Coffee or Tea – A delightful afternoon snack.
- With Ice Cream – Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- As a Breakfast Bar – A healthier alternative to processed snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
Store them in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.
Absolutely! Try dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped apricots.
Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts.
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re baking them for a snack, a dessert, or even breakfast, they are sure to become a family favorite!
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Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe