Ah, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars! When I think of these delicious treats, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the scent of baked goods wafting through the air created a sense of warmth and comfort. There’s just something about the chewiness of oat-filled bars, the sweetness from the raisins, and that hint of cinnamon that feels like a big hug. These bars are not just a dessert; they’re a nostalgic experience full of goodness and flavor!
I remember when my grandmother would whip up a batch just before our weekend family gatherings. We’d stand around the kitchen island, devouring the warm squares straight from the pan until there were barely any left! Making these bars is an easy way to bring a touch of that fond memory into any occasion, and every bite is truly a taste of home. So, let’s get our bake on and dive into how to make these delightful Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars!
What’s in Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
Oats: The star of the show! I use old-fashioned rolled oats for that chewy texture. They not only add heartiness but also bring a wonderful nutty flavor.
Flour: All-purpose flour acts as the glue that holds everything together, giving the bars the right structure without being too dense.
Brown Sugar: This is where the magic happens! The molasses in brown sugar not only sweetens the bars but also keeps them moist and chewy. I usually opt for light brown sugar, but dark works just as well!
Butter: For richness and flavor, unsalted butter is my go-to. It melts into the perfect creamy base when creamed with the eggs.
Eggs: They add moisture and help the bars bind together, ensuring that every bite holds up beautifully.
Cinnamon: A pinch or two adds a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients—trust me; don’t skip this!
Raisins: These little chewy gems are like nature’s candy! I love using plump raisins that burst with sweetness.
Walnuts: Optional but highly recommended! Chopped walnuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the chewiness of the oats and raisins.
Is Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Good for You?
As you might guess, not all desserts are created equal! But before you dive in, let’s chat about the health aspect of these cookie bars.
Oats: They are a fantastic source of fiber and can help keep you full for longer, plus they contain a host of vitamins and minerals.
Brown Sugar: While it does add sweetness, remember it’s still sugar—so enjoy in moderation!
Walnuts: Gotta love these! They are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health.
However, the raisins and sugar do add up in calories, so I recommend enjoying these bars as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack. Moderation is key!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Makes about 16 bars.
How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Trust me on this, greasing is essential to avoid those caramelized edges sticking!
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Give it a stir to make sure everything is well-mixed.
3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and eggs until they’re nice and fluffy. This adds air to the batter, making your bars lighter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. It’s okay if it looks a bit shaggy; we’ll make it work!
5. Now, fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts (if you’re using them) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Spread the mixture evenly into your greased baking pan. Use a spatula to smooth it out—no one likes a lumpy cookie bar!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until it turns golden brown on top. Your kitchen is about to smell incredible!
8. Once it’s out, allow the pan to cool on a wire rack before cutting it into gorgeous squares.
Sweet Suggestions for Serving!
– Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
– Drizzle with a bit of honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
– Enjoy them as a snack, a breakfast treat, or even as a lunchbox surprise!
There you have it—chewy, flavorful Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars that are sure to become a family favorite! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe. Whether you’re baking solo or sharing with loved ones, I hope these bars bring the same warmth to your kitchen as they do to mine. Let me know how they turn out, and happy baking!
