Oatmeal Shortbread

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: American

Chewy, buttery oatmeal shortbread bars with a hint of vanilla, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and enjoyed as a snack or dessert with tea or coffee.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 c. butter or margarine
  • 2/3 c. sugar
  • 3 1/2 c. quick oats
  • 1/4 c. flour
  • 1 tsp. vanilla

Instructions

  1. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
  2. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.
  3. Pat into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
  4. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until golden brown.
  5. Immediately cut into bars.
  6. Cool completely.
  7. Remove carefully.

Tips & Substitutions

For a nuttier flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. If you're out of quick oats, you can substitute with rolled oats, but the texture may vary slightly. To make these bars a bit sweeter, add a touch more sugar or a drizzle of honey. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour instead of regular flour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these oatmeal shortbread bars as a delightful snack or dessert alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to a picnic spread or dessert table. For a twist, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet satisfying treat. They complement well with the flavors of Fried Apple Cake.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover oatmeal shortbread bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which will keep them fresh for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Oatmeal Shortbread contains roughly 1040 calories, with 38g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (88% of the Daily Value), protein (76% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. It also contributes 25g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1040 kcal 52% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 38g 76% DV
Total Fat 16g 21% DV
Carbs 166.3g 60% DV
Fiber 24.7g 88% DV
Sugar 5.1g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 12.2mg 1% DV
Potassium 1087.3mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 3.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin C 16.3mg 18% DV
Calcium 130.9mg 10% DV
Iron 10.9mg 61% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the flavor slightly. If you do, consider reducing the amount of added salt in the recipe or omitting it altogether to balance the flavors.

What can I use as a substitute for sugar?

You can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor or use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, so adjust as necessary.

Can I freeze the oatmeal shortbread bars?

Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

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).

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