There’s something profoundly comforting about a homemade treat that brings together the classic flavors of oatmeal cookies and the rich decadence of chocolate chips. Our Oatmeal Cookie Bars recipe does just that, merging the chewy, hearty texture of oats with the sweet, melty goodness of chocolate, and a hint of vanilla for an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re looking for a snack to enjoy with your afternoon tea or a sweet finale to a family dinner, these bars are designed to delight with their perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Crafted with love and simple ingredients, this recipe invites you into the world of baking with an easy-to-follow method that guarantees success. The golden-brown crust that forms on top, the soft, chewy middle, and the occasional crunch of nuts (if you choose to add them) make each bite a delightful experience. Ideal for sharing with loved ones, these oatmeal cookie bars not only fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma but also create memories that linger long after the last crumb has been enjoyed.
Homemade Oatmeal Cookie Bars Delight
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix until just combined.
Fold in the oats, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting into squares or bars.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes | Total Time: 40-45 minutes |
Kcal: Approximately 200 kcal per serving | Servings: Makes about 12 bars
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats for the oatmeal cookie bars?
A: Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the bars might be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats will make the bars a bit softer.
Q: Is there a substitute for brown sugar in this recipe?
A: Yes, if you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar. Keep in mind that brown sugar adds moisture and a slight molasses flavor to the bars, which you will miss using only granulated sugar.
Q: Can I add fruits or other types of chocolate to the oatmeal cookie bars?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, or using different types of chocolate, such as white or dark chocolate chips. Just ensure the total amount of add-ins remains roughly the same to maintain the texture of the bars.
Q: How do I store the oatmeal cookie bars, and how long will they last?
A: The oatmeal cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months. To serve from frozen, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they do not contain gluten.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish?
A: If you don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish, you can use two 8×8-inch square pans, adjusting the baking time slightly as the thickness of the bars may change. Keep an eye on the bars as they bake to avoid overbaking.
Q: Can I make these bars vegan?
A: Yes, to make vegan oatmeal cookie bars, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use flax eggs (1 flax egg = 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 15 minutes) in place of regular eggs. Ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Q: My oatmeal cookie bars came out too hard/crumbly. What did I do wrong?
A: If your bars are too hard, they may have been overbaked. Next time, try baking them for a shorter time. If they’re crumbly, ensure you measured the ingredients accurately, especially the butter and flour, as an incorrect ratio can affect the texture.