Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars
Chewy oatmeal raisin bars offer a delightful combination of sweet raisins, crunchy walnuts, and hearty oats, making them perfect for a satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg, vanilla, baking soda, salt, and flour.
- Stir in oats, walnuts, and raisins.
- Turn the mixture into a greased 9-inch square pan and spread evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes.
- Cool in the pan before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider increasing the oats slightly or adding a few tablespoons of honey. If you don’t have walnuts, try substituting with pecans or sunflower seeds. You can also replace raisins with chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Make sure not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients to keep the bars tender.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy oatmeal raisin bars are perfect as a snack or a quick breakfast on the go. Serve them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They pair beautifully with Joann's Peach Cobbler for a delightful dessert spread. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover oatmeal raisin bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars, wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars contains roughly 622 calories, with 8g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 892mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this will make the bars dry.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).