Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

The Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of oatmeal cookies with a sweet icing. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and are sure to impress family and friends. Not only do they have a chewy texture, but they also offer a rich flavor profile thanks to the spices and oats. Serve them at parties, bake sales, or simply enjoy them as a sweet snack at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla creates a warm and inviting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: These cookie bars can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits for an extra twist.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, these bars are easy to cut into portions and share with friends and family.
• Chewy Texture: The rolled oats provide a satisfying chewiness that makes each bite enjoyable.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Below are essential tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Baking Pan (9×13 inches)
• Electric Mixer
• Cooling Rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Electric Mixer: Saves time and helps achieve a smoother batter, especially when creaming butter and sugars.
• Baking Pan: Ensures even baking; a 9×13 inch pan is ideal for the perfect thickness of bars.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g), softened to room temperature
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200g), packed
• Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
• Large Eggs: 2
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups (180g)
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, but highly recommended)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: 3 cups (270g) (not instant or quick-cooking)

For the Icing

• Powdered Sugar: 2 cups (240g), sifted
• Milk or Cream: 3-4 tablespoons (whole milk or heavy cream recommended for richness)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Pinch of Salt: optional, to balance sweetness

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the large eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then add in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (if using), and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Oats

Gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the batter evenly into a greased baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cooling before icing.

Step 7: Prepare Icing

In a separate bowl, sift powdered sugar. Add milk or cream gradually while mixing until you achieve your desired consistency. Stir in vanilla extract and add a pinch of salt if needed.

Step 8: Ice Your Bars

Once cooled, spread the icing over your oatmeal cookie bars using an offset spatula or knife. Allow it to set before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious iced oatmeal cookie bars!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Iced oatmeal cookie bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance their appeal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to make your experience even better.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the bars.
• Banana Slices: The creaminess of bananas complements the texture of the cookie bars perfectly.
• Blueberries: Juicy blueberries offer a burst of flavor with each bite, making them an excellent pairing.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy element that balances the sweetness of the bars.
• Chocolate Ice Cream: For chocolate lovers, this pairing creates a delicious flavor combination that is hard to resist.

With Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the flavors beautifully, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
• Herbal Tea: Pairing with herbal tea offers a lighter option that complements the sweetness without overpowering it.

How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Perfecting your iced oatmeal cookie bars can elevate them from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure your recipe turns out just right.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends better with sugars, leading to a smoother batter and better texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined for soft and chewy bars. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: High-quality vanilla extract and fresh spices will significantly enhance the flavor profile.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing bars to cool before icing prevents the frosting from melting and ensures neat slices.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor variation.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Serving side dishes alongside your iced oatmeal cookie bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options that pair nicely.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a tasty accompaniment that adds creaminess.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers contrasting flavors that complement the dessert well.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy option adds an interesting texture and pairs nicely with sweet desserts.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide a chewy contrast, adding variety to your dessert table.
6. Nut Mix: A mix of almonds, cashews, and walnuts serves as a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Baking without properly softened butter can lead to a dense texture. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best results.
• Skipping sifting powdered sugar can cause lumps in your icing. Always sift it before mixing for a smooth finish.
• Not measuring oats correctly might result in a dry or overly moist bar. Use the right measuring method for accurate amounts.
• Overbaking can make your bars too hard. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they’re lightly golden.
• Ignoring the cooling time will affect the icing’s adherence. Let the bars cool completely before adding icing for a perfect glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the iced oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Frozen bars can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on low power for about 15-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it to warm the bars evenly for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe that many home bakers have.

How do I make my iced oatmeal cookie bars chewier?

To achieve a chewier texture, consider using more oats or slightly reducing the baking time.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to enhance flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have vanilla extract?

You can substitute with almond extract or simply omit it, although this may alter the flavor slightly.

How long does it take to prepare the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

Preparation typically takes about 15-20 minutes, followed by a baking time of approximately 25-30 minutes.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe, as quick oats will change the texture and consistency of your bars.

Final Thoughts

The Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite additions or toppings. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, these bars are sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try and delight in its delightful flavors!