Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of browned butter with the comforting chewiness of oatmeal and the sweet bursts of raisins. These bars not only tickle your taste buds but also evoke warm memories of baking at home. They are perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a hearty dessert that will please your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this step-by-step recipe will guide you through making these irresistibly delicious bars!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe for Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars is packed with benefits that make it a family favorite. The preparation is easy, requiring minimal ingredients, which means less time shopping and more time baking! Since it comes together quickly, you can whip up a batch for last-minute gatherings or weekend treats. Plus, the bars are delightful for all ages, making them a must-try for family-friendly cooking. They are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while providing a bit of wholesome goodness from oats and raisins.
Ingredients for Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
To create these scrumptious bars, gather these fresh ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: Imparts a creamy base with a rich flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a deep, caramel sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the richness with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Creates the bar structure with a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the bars rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Enhances the flavor with a warm spice note.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: Provides lovely texture and chewiness.
- 1 1/2 cups raisins: Bursts of sweetness and chew.
For the Brown Butter Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: The base for a smooth, creamy frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 2 tbsp milk (plus more as needed): Adjusts the frosting’s consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth to the frosting flavor.
- Pinch of salt: To enhance the flavors and balance sweetness.
Step-by-Step Directions for Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and continue cooking until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Once golden, remove it from heat and allow it to cool for 15 minutes.
While the butter is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Gently stir in the rolled oats and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 22–26 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting, brown the butter in the same manner as before. Once browned, transfer to a mixing bowl, followed by adding the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat the mixture until smooth and fluffy, adjusting the consistency with more milk if needed.
Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the brown butter frosting generously over the top. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls on the frosting surface and sprinkle a few extra raisins on top if desired.
Cut the cookie bars into squares and serve immediately, or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
Tips & Tricks for Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
To elevate your baking game, here are some chef’s secrets and optional extras. Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an additional crunch. A sprinkle of sea salt atop the frosting can enhance the flavor contrast even further. If you’re aiming for a more decadent treat, you can fold in chocolate chips along with the raisins. Lastly, don’t rush the brown butter process; that nutty flavor is what makes these bars irresistible, so take your time to achieve the perfect hue!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Enjoy these Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars warm or at room temperature, paired with a tall glass of milk, a cup of tea, or even coffee for a comforting afternoon snack. For an elegant dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch that invites your guests for a taste!
Nutritional Information
While these cookie bars are indulgent, they are also a source of wholesome ingredients. Each square contains approximately 200 calories, offering a balanced treat with oats providing fiber and raisins adding natural sugars. Always enjoy in moderation to maintain a wise approach to indulgences.
Storing Tips & Variations for Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
To keep your Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For extended storage, you can freeze them for up to three months—just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm once again. For a healthier twist, feel free to substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or use whole grain flour.
Conclusion for Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are an ultimate treat that combines comfort, nostalgia, and a flair for indulgence. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll create a delicious dessert that families adore. Whip up a batch today and surprise your loved ones with these chewy, frosted delights!
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can! However, using rolled oats will yield a chewier texture, which is preferred for these cookie bars.
2. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
They are done when the edges are golden brown, and when you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean.
3. Can I make these bars without raisins?
Absolutely! Feel free to omit the raisins or replace them with your favorite dried fruit or chocolate chips.
4. How should I store any leftover cookie bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
5. Is it necessary to frost these bars?
While they’re delicious on their own, the brown butter frosting adds a creamy touch that elevates the overall flavor. It’s certainly worth a try!
Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter Imparts a creamy base with a rich flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed Adds moisture and a deep, caramel sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Balances the richness with a hint of sweetness.
- 2 large eggs Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract Infuses a warm, inviting aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Creates the bar structure with a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp baking soda Helps the bars rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon Enhances the flavor with a warm spice note.
- 1/2 tsp salt Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats Provides lovely texture and chewiness.
- 1 1/2 cups raisins Bursts of sweetness and chew.
For the Brown Butter Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter The base for a smooth, creamy frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- 2 tbsp milk Adjusts the frosting’s consistency.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds depth to the frosting flavor.
- Pinch salt Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and continue cooking until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Once golden, remove it from heat and allow it to cool for 15 minutes.
- While the butter is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Gently stir in the rolled oats and raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Baking
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 22–26 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Frosting
- For the frosting, brown the butter in the same manner as before. Once browned, transfer to a mixing bowl, followed by adding the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat the mixture until smooth and fluffy, adjusting the consistency with more milk if needed.
- Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the brown butter frosting generously over the top. Use the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls on the frosting surface and sprinkle a few extra raisins on top if desired.
Serving
- Cut the cookie bars into squares and serve immediately, or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment.