Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars with Maple Frosting Recipe

Nothing quite compares to the warm, chewy comfort of oatmeal treats, especially when you elevate them with a luscious twist. The Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars with Maple Frosting Recipe perfectly combines hearty oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, all topped with a dreamy maple-infused frosting that takes these bars to another level. This recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser that works wonderfully for snacks, dessert, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple staples, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the rich butter that brings moisture and tenderness to the oats and raisins contributing chewiness and natural sweetness, every component ensures your bars turn out irresistibly delicious.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to keep the bars soft yet sturdy.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to give a light texture.
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, cozy spice aroma throughout the bars.
• ½ teaspoon fine salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing sweetness.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Brings richness and tenderness to the cookie base.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Helps bind ingredients and adds moisture.
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar: Offers sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances natural sweetness.
• 2 cups quick-cooking oats: The chewy heart of the bars, for texture and wholesome goodness.
• 1 cup raisins: A burst of natural, sweet chew in every bite.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting): Creates the creamy base for the maple frosting.
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup: Gives the frosting a rich, authentic Canadian-inspired sweetness.
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream, room temperature: Adds smoothness and helps achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: A subtle spice that complements the maple flavor in the frosting.
• ¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional): Amplifies the maple notes if you want extra punch.

How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars with Maple Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan thoroughly and line it with parchment paper. This step makes cleanup so much easier and ensures your bars release perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these upfront helps distribute the leavening and spices evenly throughout your bars, ensuring consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Brown Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter with brown sugar until light and fluffy, around 2 to 3 minutes. This incorporates air for a lighter texture and creates a rich, caramel-like base for the bars.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs add moisture and help bind the ingredients, while the vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet

Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter, mixing just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the bars tough, so a gentle fold is best here.

Step 6: Fold in Oats and Raisins

Add the quick-cooking oats and raisins to your combined dough and fold them in carefully. The oats add that perfect chewy texture, while the raisins bring juicy bursts of natural sweetness.

Step 7: Spread Dough and Bake

Evenly spread the cookie dough into your prepared pan. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few more raisins on top for visual appeal and extra bites of chew. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the edges start turning a lovely golden brown.

Step 8: Cool the Bars

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully is crucial before you add the frosting to avoid melting and sliding.

Step 9: Prepare the Maple Frosting

Beat the butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Stir in maple syrup, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and the optional maple extract for a luscious, aromatic frosting that’s the perfect finishing touch.

Step 10: Frost and Slice

Spread the maple frosting evenly over the cooled oatmeal bars. Cut into squares, and get ready to indulge in some seriously satisfying bites of warm nostalgia mixed with a special sweet twist.

How to Serve Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars with Maple Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of cinnamon or a few extra raisins placed delicately on top can add a charming finishing touch. You can also try a light drizzle of extra maple syrup or even some chopped toasted walnuts for a bit of crunch paired with the soft bar.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a chilled glass of milk for the ultimate cozy combo. For brunch or a special breakfast treat, serve alongside a fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the bars into little towers tied with twine for a rustic look at gatherings, or serve them alongside scoops of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a warm dessert experience. They also make fantastic portable snacks for picnics or lunchboxes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover oatmeal raisin cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh and soft for up to four days, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the week without losing their charm.

Freezing

If you want to extend their life, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. When thawing, simply transfer to the fridge overnight or leave at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

To enjoy these bars warm, pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. The frosting stays smooth, and the bars regain that just-baked softness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or cherries work wonderfully if you want a different flavor or texture. Just keep the quantity similar to maintain the right moisture balance.

Is it necessary to use quick-cooking oats?

Quick-cooking oats help achieve a softer texture in the bars, but you can use old-fashioned rolled oats if you prefer a heartier chew. Just keep in mind the outcome will be a bit firmer.

What if I don’t have maple syrup or maple extract?

You can still make the frosting without them, though you’ll miss out on that unique maple flair. Substitute with a teaspoon of vanilla or honey for a different but delightful sweetness.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Make sure the oats you use are certified gluten-free for safety and quality.

How thick should I spread the dough in the pan?

Spread the dough evenly in the 9×9-inch pan, roughly about an inch thick. This ensures the bars bake evenly and have the perfect balance of moist interior to slightly crisp edges.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars with Maple Frosting Recipe — it’s a beautiful blend of comfort food with a sweet twist that always brings smiles. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Give this recipe a try and indulge in a homemade bar that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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