Oatmeal Cookie Bar
Chewy, hearty oatmeal cookie bars with a sweet jam layer, perfect for snack times or casual gatherings, combining oats, buttery crust, and fruity filling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter or margarine and sugar; add flour, soda, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in oats.
- Press half of the mixture into a 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Spread with your favorite jam over the pressed crust.
- Place the remaining dough on top of the jam layer.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
- Cool and cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for added texture and nutrition. If you prefer a nutty taste, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the oat mixture. Ensure the jam is spread evenly to avoid burning during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal cookie bars can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for snacks or dessert. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them ideal for afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Cookie Bar contains roughly 163 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 722mg per serving (31% 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
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes! You can experiment with different flours such as almond flour or oat flour. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture and flavor of the bars. If using gluten-free flour, ensure it is a blend suitable for baking to achieve the best results.
What type of jam works best?
You can use any jam you like! Raspberry, apricot, or strawberry jams are popular choices. For a more adventurous flavor, try using a spiced jam or even homemade fruit preserves. Just ensure the jam is not too runny to maintain the structure of the bars.
Can I make these oatmeal cookie bars vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Use a flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacer if needed, and ensure that the jam you choose is also vegan-friendly. Enjoy a delicious vegan treat!
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).