Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars

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Soft, chewy, and full of cozy comfort, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a sweet tribute to the classic cookie we all grew up loving. Packed with rolled oats and plump raisins, they strike the perfect balance between hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack or sneaking one into a lunchbox, these bars are an easy win for all ages.

What makes these cookie bars extra special is the satisfying texture—golden and lightly crisp on the edges, yet delightfully tender in the center. They come together in a single bowl and bake into a tray of nostalgic goodness that’s easier than scooping out individual cookies. Plus, the homey scent of cinnamon and brown sugar makes your kitchen smell like a hug.

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Ingredients for this Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars Recipe

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 1/2 cups raisins
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch

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Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 5: Fold in Oats and Raisins

Stir in the rolled oats and raisins until evenly distributed throughout the dough. If you’re using nuts, fold them in at this point.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out and slicing into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my cookie bars from drying out?

Make sure they are stored in a tightly sealed container, and avoid overbaking. Keeping a slice of bread in the container can also help retain moisture.

Can I substitute the raisins?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips can be used in place of raisins.

Are quick oats okay to use instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats will change the texture and make the bars softer and slightly denser. Rolled oats are preferred for the classic chewy structure.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend and ensuring your oats are certified gluten-free.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

They should be golden on the edges and set in the middle. A toothpick inserted should come out with only a few moist crumbs.

Do I need to soak the raisins?

Soaking is optional. If your raisins are especially dry, soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes can help plump them up and make them more tender in the finished bars.

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