Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances the warmth of oatmeal with the sweetness of icing, then this Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is just what you need! These bars are not only easy to whip up but also bring a sense of nostalgia with every bite. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet without spending all day in the kitchen, and they make a fantastic addition to family gatherings or bake sales.

What makes this recipe special is its gooey texture paired with a creamy icing, making it an instant favorite among friends and family. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these cookie bars in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies, and these bars are no exception! They’re great for kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance for parties or snacks throughout the week—just store them in an airtight container!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of oats, spices, and creamy icing creates a flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy for you to create something delightful right at home. Here’s what you’ll need for your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars:

For the Cookie Bars

• 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)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Dried Fruits: Fold in some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy surprise.
• Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips to satisfy any chocolate cravings.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with other spices like ginger or cloves for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cookie bars rise nicely.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in your eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined. This will give your bars that rich flavor we all love!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (if using), and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This helps prevent flour clouds from forming!

Step 5: Stir in the Oats

Once combined, gently fold in the rolled oats using a spatula. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter—this is where that lovely chewy texture comes from!

Step 6: Bake Your Bars

Spread the batter into a greased baking pan and smooth it out evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown around the edges. The center may look slightly underbaked—that’s okay! It will firm up as it cools.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing

While your bars are cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if needed; you want it pourable but thick enough to hold its shape.

Step 8: Ice Your Cookie Bars

Once cooled completely, drizzle or spread your icing over the top of the cookie bars. Let it set before cutting them into squares.

And there you have it—the perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some tips to help you create the perfect iced oatmeal cookie bars!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Let your butter and eggs sit out for at least 30 minutes before starting. This helps them blend more easily into the dough, resulting in a better texture.

• Don’t skip sifting the powdered sugar: Sifting your powdered sugar for the icing will ensure a lump-free glaze that spreads beautifully over your cookie bars, making them look as good as they taste.

• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet icing, start with 2 tablespoons of milk or cream and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you can customize the sweetness to your taste!

• Chill before cutting: Once baked and iced, let the bars cool completely in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This makes them easier to cut into neat squares and enhances their flavor as well.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add additional spices like ginger or allspice to the dough for a unique twist on flavor. These spices can elevate your bars and make them stand out!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Serving your iced oatmeal cookie bars can be as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over the iced surface not only looks appealing but also enhances that warm spice aroma.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookie bars. Consider using berries, melon, and citrus for brightness.

• Yogurt parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and fruit. The tanginess of yogurt complements the sweetness of the cookie bars beautifully.

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs wonderfully with these dessert bars, providing a soothing balance to their sweetness.

• Ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your iced oatmeal cookie bars will not only taste amazing but also look irresistible on any table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here are some easy tips on how to store and prolong the life of your tasty treats.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your iced oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them, where they can last for about a week.
• Always separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cookie bars before icing them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy, just remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature before icing.

Reheating

• If you like your cookie bars warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-10 minutes.
• You can also microwave individual bars for about 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up!

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might come to mind.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats in the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

Using quick oats is not recommended as they may alter the texture of your cookie bars. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for that chewy goodness!

How do I make the icing for my Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

To make the icing, simply mix sifted powdered sugar with milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if you’d like!

What can I substitute for butter in the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

You can use coconut oil or vegan butter as an alternative to keep it dairy-free while maintaining that rich flavor.

How should I store leftovers from the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness. They will stay delicious for several days!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookie bars by adding nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe brings joy and warmth to your kitchen! It’s such a comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!). Enjoy the baking process, savor every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy baking!