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Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

These delightful oatmeal raisin cookie bars are a comforting treat, combining chewy oats and sweet raisins topped with creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 16 squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Base
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Recommended: King Arthur or Gold Medal for a balanced texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Helps the bars rise and stay soft.
  • 0.75 teaspoon ground cinnamon Use fresh for the best taste.
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine salt Balances out the sweetness.
  • 0.75 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Choose high-quality butter like Kerrygold for rich flavor.
  • 0.75 cup packed light brown sugar Provides moisture and sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Helps combine everything.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Opt for pure vanilla for deeper flavor.
  • 2 cups quick-cooking oats Can substitute with rolled oats.
  • 1 cup raisins Use plump, juicy raisins for the best sweetness.
Frosting
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Same brand recommendation as for cookie base.
  • 1.5 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting.
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup Adds delightful flavor.
  • 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature Adjust for desired consistency.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds hint of warmth.
  • 0.25 teaspoon maple extract (optional) Adds depth if desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan with baking spray, then line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Mixing the Base
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in the oats and raisins.
  4. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan.
Baking
  1. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the bars cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Frosting
  1. Beat the butter until smooth. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, adding the maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and optional maple extract until creamy.
  2. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, slice into squares, and enjoy.

Notes

Use quality ingredients for the best flavor. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for a week. Can freeze for up to 3 months.