Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars – Chewy, Sweet & Frosted
Introduction
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie. Soft, chewy, and packed with oats and raisins, they’re baked into easy bars and finished with a creamy maple‑cinnamon frosting. Perfect for potlucks, lunchboxes, or a cozy afternoon treat, these bars are simple to make and impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic flavor: Oats, raisins, and cinnamon for nostalgic comfort.
Easy bars: No scooping—just press into a pan and bake.
Frosted finish: Maple‑cinnamon frosting takes them over the top.
Versatile: Great for snacks, desserts, or gifting.
Ingredients
Cookie Bars
1½ cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
¾ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp fine salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups quick‑cooking oats
1 cup raisins
Frosting
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp maple syrup
1–2 tbsp heavy cream, at room temperature
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp maple extract (optional)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9‑inch pan with parchment.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
Beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add dry ingredients. Fold in oats and raisins. Dough will be thick.
Step 5: Bake
Press dough evenly into pan. Bake 18–20 minutes until edges are golden. Cool completely.
Step 6: Frost
Beat butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then maple syrup, cream, cinnamon, and maple extract. Spread over cooled bars.
Step 7: Slice & Serve
Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Extra chewy: Use old‑fashioned oats instead of quick oats.
Boost flavor: Soak raisins in warm water or rum before adding.
Storage: Keep in airtight container up to 4 days.
Make ahead: Freeze unfrosted bars for up to 2 months.
Variations
Nutty Bars: Add chopped walnuts or pecans.
Chocolate Twist: Swap raisins for chocolate chips.
Holiday Version: Sprinkle frosting with cinnamon sugar.
Fruit Mix: Use dried cranberries or cherries instead of raisins.
Serving Ideas
Pair with coffee or chai tea.
Pack in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.
Serve at brunch alongside fresh fruit.
Wrap individually for gifting.
FAQs
Q: Can I skip the frosting?
Yes, the bars are delicious plain, but frosting adds a special touch.
Q: Can I make these gluten‑free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten‑free flour blend.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—use a 9×13 pan and adjust bake time slightly.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Yield: 12–16 bars
Final Thoughts
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are chewy, sweet, and topped with a luscious maple‑cinnamon frosting. They’re the perfect blend of cozy comfort and bakery‑style indulgence.