Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bliss Bars
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a trip down memory lane? You know, those moments when grandma's oatmeal raisin bars filled the kitchen with their comforting aroma? Today, we're diving into a recipe for oatmeal raisin cookie bars that brings back those warm and fuzzy feelings but with a modern twist.
Brief Overview
This classic treat has roots in home baking traditions around the globe. My oatmeal raisin cookie bars recipe is easy, taking only about 45 minutes from start to finish.
This will yield 16 delicious squares, perfect for sharing, or not!
Main Benefits
These easy oatmeal bars are packed with fiber from the oats, making them a healthier option for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Plus, they're ideal for a casual afternoon tea or a quick lunchbox cookie bars snack. Honestly, what makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the nostalgic flavor that reminds me of childhood.
Diving into Baking with Oats
So, what's the deal with oats? Did you know that oats are nutritional powerhouses? They're loaded with soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol.
Plus, they add such a satisfying chewiness to these bars. Now, let's get started with the ingredient list and make this chewy oatmeal raisin bars a banger!
Alright, so you wanna whip up some seriously good oatmeal raisin cookie bars ? Sorted! Here's the lowdown on what you'll need.
Trust me, this oatmeal raisin cookie bars recipe is so straightforward, it's practically foolproof. Get ready for some chewy oatmeal raisin bars that'll take you right back to Grandma's kitchen!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!
Right then, let's talk ingredients. For these easy oatmeal bars , we’re not talking about anything fancy. Just your standard baking bits and bobs.
Honestly, these are the best homemade cookie bars ever, and super simple!
Main Ingredients
- Butter: 1 cup (226g) . Gotta be softened, not melted. The butter quality is key for that rich flavor, so go for a decent brand. You know, the kind your mum used to use.
- Brown Sugar: ¾ cup (150g) , packed. Light brown sugar is the way to go for that lovely caramel-y flavour.
- Granulated Sugar: ½ cup (100g) . Plain ol’ white sugar.
- Eggs: 2 large ones. Free range if you're feeling fancy.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Go for the real stuff, not the artificial rubbish.
- Flour: 1 ½ cups (192g) . All-purpose, standard baking flour.
- Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . This is our raising agent, don't skip it!.
- Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) . A wee dash of warmth is ideal.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) . Enhances all the flavors, trust me!.
- Rolled Oats: 3 cups (240g) , divided. Old-fashioned oats are essential ! No instant stuff.
- Raisins: 1 cup (170g) . Plump and juicy ones. Golden raisins are great too if you want a bit of oatmeal cookie bar variations .
Seasoning Notes
This is where you can go a bit wild. Cinnamon is crucial . It adds warmth. Some people like a pinch of nutmeg too.
Honestly, it's up to you. A tiny bit of ground ginger is quite nice in there. Not enough to taste it, but just enough to zing it up a bit! If you're feeling adventurous, a touch of cardamom or allspice adds a unique twist to these lunchbox cookie bars .
For a chewy oatmeal raisin bars , these additions can definitely kick it up a notch.
If you are thinking "i want something like grandma's oatmeal raisin bars ", I believe that grandma would say "Add a pinch of love".
Equipment Needed
Just the basics, nothing crazy!
- 9x13 inch baking pan . The bigger, the better, right?
- Parchment paper . Makes life so much easier, honestly.
- Electric mixer . Handheld or stand mixer. Whatever you have kicking about.
- Measuring cups and spoons . Obvs.
- Mixing bowls . Two will do nicely.
- Rubber spatula . For scraping every last bit.
- Wire rack . For cooling. It's not the end of the world if you don't have one, though.
Right then, with all that sorted, you’re officially ready to bake some soft baked oatmeal bars . Let’s get to it! And remember, baking with oats is always a good shout, especially when it ends with these beauties.
You’ll see that soon this oatmeal raisin bars are going to be part of your favorites recipes.
Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bliss Bars
Honestly, who doesn't love a good cookie bar? These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bliss Bars are like a warm hug from your grandma.
We're taking the classic oatmeal raisin cookie bars recipe and turning it into something even easier to make and share.
And, you know, they taste amazing . These easy oatmeal bars are perfect with a cuppa.
Prep Like a Pro!
First things first, let's get organized. This is the mise en place , darling. Soften 1 cup of butter. Get out your sugars ¾ cup packed brown, and ½ cup granulated.
Measure out 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
Then, grab 3 cups of rolled oats and 1 cup of raisins. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
This is the most important step, trust me. No one wants stuck bars.
Time saving tip: Get everything measured before you start. Honestly, it’ll save you so much faffing about.
Making the Bliss: step-by-step
Alright, let's get baking!
- Preheat your oven to 350° F . That’s 175° C for our European friends.
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in 2 eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla. Smells good already, eh?
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in 2 cups of oats and raisins.
- Press into the pan, sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of oats, and press them in gently.
- Bake for 25- 30 minutes , until golden brown.
Pro Tips and Tricks for Grandma's Oatmeal Raisin Bars
Want to make these chewy oatmeal raisin bars even better? Soften, don't melt, your butter. Slightly underbaking makes them chewier.
Also, make sure you press those top oats in well! And for something different, try toasting the oats for a nutty flavor!
Common Mistake: Overbaking! Keep an eye on them. You want that perfect chewy centre.
make-ahead Option: You can make the dough a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before baking.
These soft baked oatmeal bars also freeze really well, so they are great for lunchbox cookie bars . Enjoy the best homemade cookie bars !
So there you have it! These oatmeal cookie bar variations are sure to please. This recipe is a proper delight, and if I do say so myself, a great way of baking with oats .
Recipe Notes: Making the Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
So, you're ready to bake some chewy oatmeal raisin bars ? Fab! Before you preheat that oven, let's chat about a few things.
This isn't just about following a oatmeal raisin cookie bars recipe ; it’s about making these homemade cookie bars the best they can be.
Honestly, these notes can elevate your easy oatmeal bars from "meh" to "OMG!"
Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key!
Okay, so you've baked these amazing oatmeal raisin bars . Now what? I love cutting them into squares and arranging them on a pretty plate.
Fancy, right? Try drizzling a little melted white chocolate over the top. Or, for a cozy vibe, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Soft baked oatmeal bars and ice cream? Yes, please! A cold glass of milk or a steaming cuppa (tea, obviously) is also proper lush.
For a bit of fun, why not cut them into smaller squares and pop them into kids' lunchbox cookie bars ? So versatile!
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh!
Right, so you’ve resisted the urge to eat all 16 bars in one sitting. Bravo! To keep your grandma's oatmeal raisin bars tasting just as good the next day, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you live in a hot place, the fridge is better. Want to freeze them? Go for it! Wrap the bars individually in cling film and then place them in a freezer bag.
They'll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, just let them thaw at room temperature. A quick zap in the microwave works too, but they might get a bit softer.
Variations: Get Creative with Your Oatmeal Cookie Bar Variations
Fancy a twist on the classic? Why not add some chocolate chips? Half a cup of chocolate chips is a winner.
Or what about some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans? If you're feeling fancy, a drizzle of maple syrup instead of sugar works wonders.
Need a gluten-free version? Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Seriously, baking with oats is so adaptable! For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter.
The flavor will change, but it's still yummy! Don't have raisins? Dried cranberries or chopped dates work too.
Nutrition Basics: A Wholesome Treat
Let's be real, these oatmeal raisin cookie bars are a treat. But hey, they’ve got oats! Oats are a great source of fiber, which is good for your gut.
Each bar has approximately 220 calories. The protein is about 4g, with fat at 10g, carbohydrates at 30g, fiber at 2g, sugar at 15g, and sodium around 100mg.
They're also naturally sweetened. That's a win, right? Just remember, moderation is key. Everything in balance, my friend!
Honestly, this oatmeal raisin cookie bars recipe is one of those that gets passed down. It’s proper simple, proper comforting, and pretty much foolproof.
Give it a go, have some fun, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these oatmeal raisin cookie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These oatmeal raisin cookie bars are perfect for making ahead. Once baked and cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They're also great for prepping a day or two before a bake sale a real Mary Berry move!
How do I store oatmeal raisin cookie bars to keep them fresh?
The key to keeping your oatmeal raisin cookie bars fresh is to store them properly. Place cooled bars in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Stored this way, they'll stay chewy and delicious for about 3-4 days at room temperature, or you can freeze them for longer storage (up to 2 months).
I'm not a fan of raisins. What can I substitute in these oatmeal raisin cookie bars?
No problem! If raisins aren't your cup of tea, feel free to swap them out for something you prefer. Chocolate chips (milk, dark, or white!), dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans would all work wonderfully in these oatmeal raisin cookie bars.
Think of it as putting your own Jamie Oliver twist on the recipe!
Can I make these oatmeal raisin cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it's a blend that contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon of xanthan gum to the dry ingredients to help bind the bars together, much like a proper Yorkshire pudding needs the right consistency.
Why did my oatmeal raisin cookie bars turn out dry?
Dry oatmeal raisin cookie bars usually indicate overbaking or using too much flour. Make sure to measure your flour accurately, and keep a close eye on the bars while they're in the oven. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs that's how you know they're done!
Slightly underbaking them is better than overbaking for that perfectly chewy texture.
What's the best way to get neatly cut oatmeal raisin cookie bars?
For perfectly neat cookie bars, line your baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang. After baking, let the bars cool completely in the pan, then use the overhang to lift the whole slab out. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares, wiping the knife clean between each cut for the cleanest lines.
You'll have bars that look like they came straight from a fancy bakery, cheers!
Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bliss Bars
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 220 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
