Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars take me straight back to my grandma’s kitchen, where the smell of warm oats, cinnamon, and sweet raisins filled the air every Sunday afternoon. I remember helping her press the thick dough into a pan, sneaking bites of the batter when she wasn’t looking. The bars came out perfectly golden, chewy in the center with slightly crisp edges—a texture I’ve aimed to recreate with every batch I’ve baked since.
I’ve always loved oatmeal cookies, but turning them into bars? That was a game-changer. It means no scooping, no waiting for batches to bake, and a lot more chewy, buttery goodness in every bite. Plus, there’s something so comforting about slicing into a pan of warm bars, especially when the raisins plump up and create little pockets of sweet joy.
These bars are my go-to when I want to whip up something homey, satisfying, and perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. They store well, pack easily, and always win people over. If you’re a fan of classic oatmeal raisin cookies, these bars might just become your new favorite twist. For something similarly cozy and easy, check out my Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe or the ever-popular Peanut Butter Balls with Chocolate Rice Krispies.
Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe
These cookie bars are everything you love about oatmeal raisin cookies in an easy-to-make bar form. You’ll love how they come together with pantry staples, and the texture is unbeatable—soft, chewy, and loaded with juicy raisins and warm spices. They’re perfect for bake sales, lunchbox treats, or a nostalgic afternoon snack. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is straightforward, fuss-free, and absolutely delicious.
How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 2: Combine and Fold
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Fold in the raisins and optional chopped nuts for extra crunch and richness. The dough will be thick and hearty—exactly what you want.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
Spread the dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Press it down slightly to level the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
You can easily adapt these bars to your liking. Swap the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates if you’re looking for a different flavor. Add white chocolate chips or chunks of dark chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth even more. If you’re avoiding dairy, use plant-based butter and egg substitutes like flax eggs. For a nutty twist, chopped walnuts or pecans blend beautifully into the mix.
Need a gluten-free version? Use certified gluten-free oats and your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You can even experiment with adding a bit of shredded coconut or swapping some of the flour for almond flour for added texture and flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars shine on their own, but they’re even better with a few thoughtful pairings. I love serving them slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert—the contrast of hot and cold is irresistible. For an afternoon pick-me-up, try them with a cozy cup of chai tea or a strong, dark roast coffee. Their chewy texture and warming spices also make them a perfect addition to brunch tables or potlucks.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Once completely cooled, store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a sealed freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep my cookie bars soft and chewy?
Make sure not to overbake them. Pull them from the oven when the edges are just golden and the center is set. Also, using brown sugar helps retain moisture.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can double the recipe and bake it in a half-sheet pan. Just watch your bake time—you might need to add a few extra minutes.
What if I don’t have raisins?
No problem. Try substituting them with dried cranberries, chopped dried figs, or even chocolate chips.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes. Use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for each egg.
Are these bars good for lunchboxes?
Definitely. They travel well and stay fresh for days, making them a fantastic make-ahead snack for school or work.
Related Recipe You’ll Like
If you love the cozy, nostalgic taste of these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars, you’re going to fall for a few other comforting desserts on my site. One of my favorites is the Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars — creamy, sweet, and wrapped in flaky crescent dough with a cinnamon sugar topping. It’s indulgent in all the right ways.
For a fun and festive twist, the Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies offer a buttery crunch with bright bursts of cherry that pair beautifully with holiday gatherings or casual coffee moments.
Looking for something with a chewy, crispy texture like these bars? Don’t miss my 3-Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies. They’re wholesome and easy to whip up, perfect for mornings on the go or a healthy snack any time of day.
Save and Share This Recipe for Later
If these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars won your heart, don’t forget to save them for next time! Pin this recipe to your favorite dessert board on Pinterest, or bookmark it so it’s just a click away whenever you need a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat. Share the love with friends and family by sending them the link, or posting your creation on social media and tagging me—I’d love to see how your bars turned out!
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a comforting dessert bar version of the classic oatmeal raisin cookie. Packed with chewy oats, plump raisins, brown sugar, and warm cinnamon, these bars are soft and hearty with a delightful golden crust. They are easy to make in a single pan, perfect for sharing, and ideal for make-ahead baking. Whether you’re planning for a potluck, holiday gathering, or just want a nostalgic treat, these bars deliver every time. Great for kids’ lunchboxes, snack trays, or cozy afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups raisins
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in raisins and nuts if using.
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan, pressing lightly to level.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Do not overbake to ensure the bars remain soft and chewy.
- For variation, try dried cranberries or chocolate chips instead of raisins.
- Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave to enjoy warm.
