When you’re craving something comforting, chewy, and just the right amount of sweet, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are here to answer the call. These delightful bars combine the cozy flavor of oats, the warm spice of cinnamon, and the natural sweetness of raisins into one irresistible snack. Whether you’re making a batch for an afternoon treat, packing them in lunchboxes, or sharing with friends over coffee, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are the kind of homemade goodness we all need more of.
I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count each time, they disappear within hours. And honestly, there’s something nostalgic about the smell of oats and cinnamon baking in the oven. Let’s jump right into how you can make your own batch of Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars!
Ingredients for Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
To whip up a batch of these chewy, soft-centered bars, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup raisins
Optional Add-Ins: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans if you’re craving some crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This is your dry base that brings all the texture and spice.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates a creamy, rich foundation for your cookie bars.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Your kitchen is going to start smelling amazing right about now.
5. Combine and Fold
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined don’t overmix! Then gently fold in the raisins (and nuts, if using). The batter should be thick and slightly sticky.
6. Press and Bake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to smooth it out. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is just set.
Baking Tip: The bars will continue to cook a bit after you take them out. Don’t wait for the center to look fully done soft is good!
7. Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Then, slice them into squares or rectangles. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days if they last that long!
Tips for the Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
- Don’t Overmix: Once the dry ingredients meet the wet, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing leads to tough bars.
- Chill if You Can: Got time? Chill the dough for 30 minutes. It helps create cleaner edges and a more satisfying chew.
- Add Crunch: Chopped walnuts or pecans bring a lovely texture contrast to the soft raisins and chewy oats.
- Watch the Bake: Bake just until the edges are golden. The center should still look soft it’ll firm up as it cools.
Why You’ll Love These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
These bars are everything you love about oatmeal cookies just in bar form. No scooping, no rolling, no fuss. You get those cozy cinnamon-oat vibes with the gooey sweetness of raisins, all wrapped up in a bar that’s perfect for dunking in your morning coffee or serving as a midday treat.
Plus, they’re super adaptable. Want to swap raisins for dried cranberries or chocolate chips? Go for it. Want to drizzle some white chocolate on top? I’m not stopping you. You do you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.
What’s the best way to store Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temp for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes! Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg). Double-check your sugar is vegan, too.
Why are my cookie bars dry?
Dry bars could be from overbaking or overmixing. Keep the center soft when removing from the oven and avoid beating the batter too much.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so charming about these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars. They’re unfussy, flavorful, and always hit the spot. Whether you’re baking for the family, prepping for a bake sale, or just need a moment of homemade happiness, these bars are ready to deliver.
Give them a try, and don’t forget to tag me in your creations I love seeing your delicious spins! Bake a batch, pour a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy the warm comfort that only oats and raisins can bring.
Happy baking!
– Linda from IziRecipes.com 🧁
