Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars: A Deliciously Easy Recipe to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the comforting flavors of traditional oatmeal cookies with a modern twist. As a fan of both cookies and bars, I find these sweet squares to be the ideal solution for satisfying my sweet tooth without the fuss of rolling out dough. Originating from classic American baking, oatmeal cookies have long been cherished for their chewy texture and wholesome ingredients, making them a favorite in many households. The addition of a creamy icing elevates these bars, creating a delicious contrast that keeps everyone coming back for more.

People love iced oatmeal cookie bars not just for their irresistible taste, but also for their convenience. They are easy to prepare, making them perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet snack at home. The combination of hearty oats and a luscious icing makes each bite a delightful experience, and I can assure you that once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your dessert repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)

Preparing the Batter

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. I like to use an electric mixer for this step, but you can also do it by hand with a wooden spoon. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a lovely flavor to your cookie bars.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout the flour.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookie bars tough.
6. Now, fold in the rolled oats. If you’re using raisins or chocolate chips, this is the time to add them as well. I love the texture that the oats provide, and the optional add-ins can really elevate the flavor!

Cooking Process

1. Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they are baked.
2. Spread the cookie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. I like to use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
4. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the cookie bars to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Preparing the Icing

1. While the cookie bars are cooling, let’s prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. I like to start with 1 tablespoon of milk and add more if needed to reach the desired consistency.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth. The icing should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk, and if it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Assembling the Cookie Bars

1. Once the cookie bars are completely cooled, it’s time to ice them! Pour the icing over the top of the bars, using a spatula to spread it evenly. I love to let the icing drip over the edges for a beautiful presentation.
2. Allow the icing to set for about 30 minutes before cutting the bars into squares. This will help the icing firm up a bit, making it easier to slice.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. I usually aim for about 24 bars, but you can make them larger or smaller based on your liking.
4. Serve the iced oatmeal cookie bars on a platter or store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a few days, or

Conclusion:

In summary, these Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and texture. The chewy oats combined with the creamy icing create a deliciously satisfying experience that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a potluck, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee at home, these bars are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the icing for an extra flavor kick, or even mix in some chocolate chips or dried fruits into the batter for a fun twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the oats for a gluten-free alternative to cater to dietary preferences. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking these Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars yourself. Once you do, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a picture of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for these delightful bars together! Happy baking!

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