Oatmeal Raisin Bars
Chewy oatmeal raisin bars packed with raisins, walnuts, and warm cinnamon, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and baking soda; mix well.
- Stir in melted butter until evenly mixed. Remove one cup of crumb mixture and set aside.
- Pat the remaining mixture into a greased 9-inch square pan.
- Combine orange marmalade, raisins, and walnuts; toss with the reserved crumb mixture.
- Sprinkle the jelly mixture over the layer in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using quick oats instead of rolled oats. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version. If you prefer a different flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping the orange marmalade for apricot preserves. Ensure the butter is not too hot when mixing in, as it may cook the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal raisin bars are perfect for breakfast or as a wholesome snack. Serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. For a more indulgent option, try serving them with vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover oatmeal raisin bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge for a delightful snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Raisin Bars contains roughly 484 calories, with 3g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 531mg per serving (23% 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 sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup. If using a liquid sweetener like maple syrup, reduce the amount of melted butter slightly to maintain the right consistency of the batter.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free oatmeal raisin bars, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the rolled oats are certified gluten-free, as regular oats may be contaminated with gluten during processing.
What can I add for extra flavor or texture?
You can add chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for added flavor and texture. A tablespoon of vanilla extract can also enhance the overall taste of the bars.
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).