These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie—thick, chewy, and packed with warm cinnamon, sweet raisins, and hearty oats. Baked in a single pan and sliced into bars, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings, packing into lunchboxes, or enjoying with a cup of chai on a rainy afternoon. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth, while the oats provide a satisfying chew. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic bite or looking for a fuss-free dessert, these bars deliver comfort in every square.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raisins
- (Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for extra flair)
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. - Cream the Butter & Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. This step helps create that soft, chewy texture. - Add Eggs & Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. - Fold in Oats & Raisins:
Stir in the oats and raisins (and any optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips). The dough will be thick—don’t worry, that’s what gives the bars their hearty bite. - Spread & Bake:
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula or your hands. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). - Cool & Slice:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days—or freeze for longer storage.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra chewiness, soak the raisins in warm water (or rum!) for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough.
- Want a tropical twist? Try swapping raisins for chopped dried mango or pineapple.
- Healthier version? Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce and reduce the sugar slightly.
- Festive flair: Add a drizzle of vanilla glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
These bars are a celebration of texture and flavor—soft centers, golden edges, and bursts of raisin sweetness in every bite. If you’re feeling adventurous, My, I’d love to help you craft a tropical-inspired version with coconut and dried papaya next!