Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars: The Ultimate Recipe for a Chewy Delight

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie that many of us grew up loving. These bars combine the chewy texture of oats with the sweet, plump raisins, creating a treat that is both satisfying and nostalgic. Originating from the traditional oatmeal cookie, these bars have become a favorite in many households, offering a convenient way to enjoy the beloved flavors without the fuss of individual cookies.

What I adore about Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars is their perfect balance of taste and texture. The hearty oats provide a wholesome base, while the raisins add a burst of sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. Not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly easy to make, making them a go-to recipe for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or a dessert, Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, I love walnuts or pecans)

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step to ensure that your cookie bars bake evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. I usually use a hand mixer for this, but a whisk works just fine if you prefer a workout!
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be light and fluffy at this point.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookie bars to be soft and chewy!
6. Fold in the rolled oats, raisins, and chopped nuts (if using). I like to use a spatula for this step to ensure everything is evenly distributed without overworking the dough.

Cooking Process

1. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. Spread the cookie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. I like to use a spatula to smooth the top, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.
4. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to cut into bars later.

Assembling and Serving

1. After the cookie bars have cooled for about 10 minutes, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan and onto a cutting board.
2. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares or rectangles. I usually cut them into about 24 bars, but you can make them larger or smaller depending on your preference.
3. Once cut, you can serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
4. If you want to elevate your cookie bars, consider drizzling some melted chocolate on top or sprinkling a little sea salt for a sweet and salty combination.

Tips and Variations

• If you want to add a little extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
• For a healthier twist, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Feel free to mix in other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a different flavor profile.
• If you’re a chocolate lover, you can add chocolate chips or chunks to the batter for a delicious twist on the classic oatmeal raisin cookie.

Storage Instructions

• Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
• To thaw, simply leave

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delightful blend of chewy oats and sweet raisins. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also offer a wholesome treat that can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. The combination of oats and raisins provides a hearty texture and a burst of flavor that is simply irresistible. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. You can also enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding in some chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to customize the recipe to your liking. I truly encourage you to give these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve baked them, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a picture of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the joy of baking together!

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