Oatmeal Raisin Bars are a soft, chewy treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon, oats, and sweet raisins into convenient, portable squares. Perfect for breakfast on the go, a midday snack, or a cozy dessert, these bars are easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients. With a touch of brown sugar and vanilla, each bite has just the right amount of sweetness and warmth, balanced by the earthy texture of oats. Great for batch baking, these oatmeal raisin bars keep well and are loved by all ages!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal, and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar, stirring until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the raisins and nuts (if using).
- Bake: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper to lift them out. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.
These Oatmeal Raisin Bars are a deliciously nostalgic treat, perfect for packing in lunches, enjoying with a cup of tea, or sharing with friends and family!
