Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

These soft and chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie. Packed with oats, raisins, and warm cinnamon spice, they’re topped with a creamy maple-cinnamon frosting for an extra layer of indulgence. Perfect for snacks, desserts, or gifting, these bars are sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon fine salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup raisins

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes .

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
2. Fold in the oats and raisins by hand using a spatula until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake

1. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, pressing it down gently to ensure an even layer.
2. Bake for 22–25 minutes , or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool

1. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting. Cooling ensures the frosting spreads smoothly without melting.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
3. Add the maple syrup, cinnamon, and maple extract (if using). Mix well.
4. Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 9: Frost and Slice

1. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars using a spatula.
2. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, then slice into squares.

Tips for Success

• Raisin Prep: For plumper, juicier raisins, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before folding them into the batter. Pat them dry with a paper towel before using.
• Frosting Adjustments: If you prefer a thinner frosting, add more heavy cream, one teaspoon at a time. For a thicker frosting, reduce the amount of cream.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a comforting treat that combines the hearty texture of oats with the sweetness of raisins and the warmth of cinnamon. The maple-cinnamon frosting adds a luxurious touch, making these bars feel extra special. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack, dessert, or homemade gift, they’re sure to bring joy to everyone who tries them. Dive into this chewy, spiced delight and savor every bite!