Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars

Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars: A Classic Treat with a Soft & Flavorful Twist

There’s something truly comforting about Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars—they bring back warm, nostalgic memories of homemade treats, fresh from the oven. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a grab-and-go breakfast, or a simple dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, these bars are a perfect choice. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, making them both delicious and satisfying.

What makes these bars stand out? First, their chewy texture is absolutely irresistible. Thanks to the perfect balance of butter, brown sugar, and eggs, each bite is soft with just the right amount of chew. Meanwhile, the oats provide a heartiness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of plump raisins. Of course, a touch of cinnamon enhances the flavor, giving these bars that classic homemade taste we all love.

Another great thing about this recipe is how easy and versatile it is. With simple pantry ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. They’re perfect for packing in lunchboxes, bringing to gatherings, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of coffee. And if you love customizing your treats, you can easily add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of icing for an extra indulgent twist.

Best of all, these bars stay fresh for days, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks. So, whether you’re a longtime fan of oatmeal raisin cookies or just looking for a foolproof homemade treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Get ready to enjoy the perfect blend of chewiness, sweetness, and warmth in every single bite!

INGREDIENTS

1 ¾ cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup raisins
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 eggs
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.

3. Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 min.

4. Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a soft texture.

6. Fold in raisins: Gently stir in raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Transfer to pan: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down slightly for a uniform surface.

8. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 min, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 min, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing into squares.

10. Serve and enjoy: These chewy, oat-forward cookie bars are perfect for snacking, packing in lunchboxes, or enjoying with a warm drink.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients for the Best Flavor – For the richest taste and best texture, always use plump, fresh raisins and high-quality cinnamon. Since old raisins can dry out quickly, it’s a good idea to soak them in warm water for about 5 minutes before mixing. This quick step not only rehydrates them but also enhances their natural sweetness. Additionally, be sure to check that your brown sugar is soft and moist, as this will help create perfectly chewy cookie bars with just the right amount of sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough for a Chewy Texture – Overmixing the batter activates too much gluten, which can easily make the bars dense rather than soft and chewy. To avoid this, gently fold in the dry ingredients just until combined—this ensures the oatmeal texture remains balanced with the cookie softness. Otherwise, if you mix too much, the bars may turn out tougher than expected, so a light hand is key! Furthermore, using a spatula instead of a mixer can help keep the dough from becoming overworked.
• Let the Bars Cool Completely Before Slicing – Cutting warm bars too soon can cause them to crumble and lose their shape. Instead, for clean, neat slices, allow the bars to cool completely for at least 30 minutes on a wire rack. This extra patience not only helps the butter set properly but also allows the flavors to fully develop. As a result, you’ll get the perfect bite every single time. Plus, if you prefer ultra-neat edges, you can chill the bars in the fridge for 10 more minutes before slicing.