Brown Butter Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars
Delightful bars combining the rich flavor of browned butter with chewy oatmeal and sweet raisins.
Servings: 16 bars
Calories: 200kcal
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.
Notes
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. For a more decadent treat, you can fold in chocolate chips along with the raisins. Don't rush the brown butter process; that nutty flavor is what makes these bars irresistible.