Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

Who doesn’t love the warm, chewy goodness of a cookie? Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars. They’re the perfect blend of wholesome oats and sweet raisins, all baked into a luscious bar that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s gather our ingredients and get baking.

Background

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they are a nostalgic hug wrapped in sweet, chewy oats. Growing up, my mom would make them every Sunday, filling our home with a comforting aroma that made it impossible to resist sneaking a taste before dinner. These bars strike the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, making them an ideal snack for kids and adults alike. Plus, they are super versatile, you can personalize them with nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup raisins (or swap with chocolate chips for a different spin)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy and well-combined.

Step 3:

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4:

In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 5:

Fold in the raisins (or chocolate chips), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6:

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 7:

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8:

Let the bars cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, 7 grams of fat, 29 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein. If you’re looking for a heart-healthy treat, these bars whip up a balance of flavors and nutrients, thanks to the oats and raisins.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also substitute applesauce for half of the butter to decrease the fat content. Adding nuts like walnuts or almonds can boost the protein and give an extra crunch that complements the chewy oats wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

These bars can be served in various ways. Try pairing them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or serve them with a side of fresh fruit for a wholesome snack. You could even warm them slightly and top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a scrumptious dessert. And if you enjoyed these, be sure to check out my Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe for another sweet treat that’s bound to impress.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is overmixing the dough, which can make the bars tough instead of chewy. Another pitfall is not letting them cool enough before cutting; this can lead to crumbly inconsistencies. Have patience, as the final product is worth the wait.

Chef’s Notes

• If you want to double this recipe, simply use a larger baking pan and increase the baking time by a few minutes.
• Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins, like dried cranberries or coconut flakes, to make them your own.
• Store the Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I add nuts to the recipe?
  A1: Absolutely; Chopped walnuts or almonds make a wonderful addition to the bars.
• Q2: How do I know when they are done baking?
  A2: The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
• Q3: Can I make these bars vegan?
  A3: You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter for a delicious plant-based version.

If you’re looking for an easy, satisfying treat that the whole family will love, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars may be just what you need. With a bit of time in the kitchen, you’ll create something truly delightful. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out my Honey Cookies Recipe for another delightful dessert to try. Happy baking!

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