Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe – The Ultimate Comfort Dessert
There’s something truly magical about the combination of warm oats, sweet raisins, and buttery goodness—especially when baked into Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars. These golden, chewy bars are everything you love about a classic oatmeal cookie but in an easier, sliceable form. Perfectly soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, they’re irresistibly comforting and loaded with nostalgic flavor.
Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering, packing a lunchbox treat, or preparing a quick dessert for guests, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars deliver that homemade, heartwarming touch. With wholesome oats, plump raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, they’re both satisfying and incredibly easy to make—a perfect balance of chewy texture and caramelized sweetness in every bite.
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🧈 Ingredients and Their Roles
For the Cookie Bars:
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, melted – The melted butter gives these bars a rich, chewy texture and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar – Adds deep caramel flavor and extra moisture for soft, chewy bars.
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar – Balances the flavor and helps the bars set with just the right amount of sweetness.
• 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add structure, keeping the bars tender.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and complements the warmth of the oats and cinnamon.
• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure while allowing the oats to shine.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bars rise slightly, giving them a light, soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds that comforting, classic spice note that pairs perfectly with raisins.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
• 3 cups (270g) old-fashioned rolled oats – The heart of the recipe—oats add texture, chewiness, and wholesome flavor.
• 1 cup (150g) raisins – Provide bursts of natural sweetness and chewy contrast in every bite.
• ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts (optional) – Add crunch and a nutty undertone that elevates the flavor.
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👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper for a smooth release.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking again until fully combined.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures that the leavening and spices are evenly distributed throughout the bars.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing—this helps maintain the bars’ soft, chewy texture.
Step 5: Add Oats and Raisins
Fold in the rolled oats, raisins, and walnuts (if using). The batter will be thick—perfect for pressing into the pan.
Step 6: Spread and Bake
Press the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set.
👉 Pro tip: Don’t overbake—these bars will continue to firm up as they cool, keeping the inside moist and chewy.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the pan to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out easily for clean, even cuts.
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❤️ Why This Recipe Is Loved
This Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars recipe is adored for its:
• Perfect texture – A chewy center with lightly crisp edges.
• Warm, nostalgic flavor – The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and oats is pure comfort.
• Easy preparation – No need for scooping individual cookies—just bake, cool, and slice.
• Versatility – Great for potlucks, snack boxes, or a quick weekday dessert.
They’re portable, freezer-friendly, and even better the next day, as the flavors deepen and the texture becomes more melt-in-your-mouth.
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💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
1. Soak your raisins in warm water or a splash of rum for 10 minutes before adding—this keeps them plump and juicy.
2. Use old-fashioned oats, not quick oats, for a chewier texture and more defined flavor.
3. Let the bars cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
4. Add a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of chocolate chips for a fun flavor twist.
5. Store properly – Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
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🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert.
• Pair with a mug of hot coffee or spiced chai for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce or cream cheese glaze for a bakery-style upgrade.
• Pack them in lunchboxes or picnic baskets—they travel beautifully and taste amazing at room temperature.
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🌟 Conclusion
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars combine everything you crave in a dessert: soft, chewy texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and sweet bursts of raisins. They’re simple to make, bake in one pan, and deliver the kind of homemade comfort that’s hard to beat.
From busy weeknights to special gatherings, these bars never fail to impress. Every bite feels like a hug—rich, buttery, and filled with wholesome goodness.
If you’re searching for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy yet unforgettable, this Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars recipe is the one to bookmark. Simple, delicious, and packed with love—these bars are the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence. 🍪✨