Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe

A soft, chewy, and comforting bar cookie filled with oats, raisins, and a sweet maple-cinnamon frosting — perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars:

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

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Cookie Bars:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan , line it with parchment paper (leaving overhang for easy removal), and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl , whisk together:
   • Flour
   • Baking soda
   • Cinnamon
   • Salt
     Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl , use an electric mixer to beat:
   • Butter and brown sugar
     until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
5. Add:
   • Eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition
   • Vanilla extract
6. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
7. Using a spatula, fold in:
   • Oats
   • Raisins
     The dough will be thick and sticky.
8. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Optionally, sprinkle a few extra raisins on top.
9. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until edges are golden brown and center is just set.
10. Let cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes, then lift out using the parchment paper and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat:
   • Butter
     until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add:
   • Powdered sugar
     Mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Add:
   • Maple syrup
   • Heavy cream
   • Cinnamon
   • Maple extract (optional)
     Beat until smooth and spreadable.

3. Finish & Serve:

1. Once bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
2. Cut into 9 large or 12 smaller squares .
3. Serve and enjoy these soft, chewy, nostalgic oatmeal raisin bars!

🕒 Recipe Notes

• Total Time: ~45 minutes (35 mins prep + 18 mins bake)
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Make Ahead: These freeze well! Wrap tightly or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

✅ Tips & Variations:

• Use old-fashioned oats instead of quick-cooking if preferred (may slightly alter texture).
• Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates for variety.
• For a drizzle topping, make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk instead of frosting.

These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of cozy and sweet — great for lunchboxes, picnics, or a classic dessert at family gatherings! 🧁🍂