Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

There’s something so comforting about the combination of oats, cinnamon, and raisins—it’s like a warm hug in dessert form. These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars take that classic flavor and elevate it with a luscious maple-cinnamon frosting. Perfect for family gatherings, after-school treats, or just a cozy evening snack, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between nostalgic flavors and modern decadence.

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)

Directions :

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with baking spray, line it with parchment paper for easy removal, and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside for later.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a mixer to beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the oats and raisins using a spatula. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 6: Bake

Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan, and optionally sprinkle a few extra raisins on top for visual appeal. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until the edges turn golden.

Step 7: Cool

Let the bars cool in the pan for 5–10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack using the parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and optional maple extract. Mix until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.