Go Back

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

These oatmeal raisin cookie bars combine the chewy texture of oats with the sweetness of raisins and a creamy frosting, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bars
  • 1 cup raisins Preferably plump, juicy raisins.
  • 1 cup warm water Helps to plump the raisins.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed For a hint of caramel flavor.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness.
  • 2 large eggs Must be at room temperature.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use pure vanilla for the best aroma.
  • 3 cups old-fashioned oats Provides heartiness.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute half with whole wheat.
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Adds warmth and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda For the rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances sweetness.
For the Frosting
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature Makes it easy to incorporate.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature Must be soft.
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Use pure for best flavor.
  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar Gives frosting a smooth finish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup raisins with 1 cup warm water. Let them soak for 30 minutes.
  2. After 30 minutes, drain the raisins well and pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  4. In a stand mixer, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  5. Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups old-fashioned oats, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
  7. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  8. Gently fold in the drained raisins.
  9. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
  10. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  11. Allow to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, mixing until creamy and fluffy.
  3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, in the fridge for up to 1 week, or frozen for up to 1 month.