Take Along Butterscotch Oat Bars
Delicious butterscotch oat bars combine sweet butterscotch chips, raisins, and nuts in a chewy oat base, perfect for snack times or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, oil, eggs, and evaporated milk in a large mixer bowl. Beat until well blended.
- Sift together flour, salt, cinnamon, and soda. Gradually add to the liquid mixture. Beat until smooth.
- Stir in oats, butterscotch chips, raisins, and chopped nuts.
- Spread the mixture into a buttered 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Let cool. Spread icing over the top. Cut into 24 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or substitute with seeds. You can also swap out the raisins for dried cranberries for a different twist. Make sure to use quick rolled oats for the right texture. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and oats.
Serving Suggestions
These butterscotch oat bars are perfect for an on-the-go snack or a sweet treat after meals. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, try adding a drizzle of chocolate icing on top or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a great addition to lunchboxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover butterscotch oat bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold for a chewy treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Take Along Butterscotch Oat Bars contains roughly 336 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 different types of chips in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute butterscotch chips with chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or even white chocolate for a new flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each type of chip will give a unique taste and sweetness to the bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are set in the center and lightly golden on the edges. You can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Avoid overbaking as it can dry them out.
Can I freeze these bars for later use?
Yes, these oat bars freeze well! After they have completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
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).