Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nostalgic Flavor: Enjoy the classic combination of oats and raisins in a more convenient bar form.
- Maple Cinnamon Frosting: The frosting adds a deliciously sweet and spiced flavor that complements the cookies perfectly.
- Easy to Make: No need to scoop individual cookies—just bake the dough in a pan and cut into bars.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cookie Bars:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3/4 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:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon maple extract (optional)
Directions
To Make the Cookie Bars:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat a 9×9 pan with baking spray and parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
- Fold in the oats and raisins. The dough will be thick.
- Press the dough into the prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
- Cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
To Make the Frosting:
- Beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Mix in the maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and maple extract.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cookie bars, then cut into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 9 large or 12 small bars
- Prep time: 35 minutes
- Cook time: 18 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the dough for extra richness.
- Nuts: Add walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Frosting Free: Enjoy the bars without frosting for a simpler treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month and thaw before serving.
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture might be slightly different.
Can I skip the frosting?
Absolutely, the bars are delicious without the frosting too!
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know when the bars are done?
The edges should be golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the bars and frost them a day or two in advance.
Conclusion
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a fun, easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of oatmeal cookies. With their soft, chewy texture and the maple cinnamon frosting, they’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual snack or a dessert for a holiday gathering. Enjoy the comforting flavors and share the joy!
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 large or 12 small bars
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic oatmeal cookie, transformed into easy-to-share bars with a delicious maple cinnamon frosting. Soft, chewy, and packed with oats and raisins, they make the perfect comfort treat for any occasion. The maple cinnamon frosting adds a sweet, spiced touch that takes these bars to the next level!
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 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
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional)
Instructions
To Make the Cookie Bars:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and coat a 9×9-inch pan with baking spray and parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until fully combined.
- Fold in the oats and raisins. The dough will be thick.
- Press the dough into the prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden around the edges.
- Cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
To Make the Frosting:
- Beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Mix in the maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and maple extract.
- Spread the frosting over the cooled cookie bars, then cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Add chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Add walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- For a simpler treat, enjoy the bars without frosting.
