The Softest Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Granola Bars Recipe Ever

Comfort meets crunch in these delectable oatmeal raisin cookie granola bars that blend childhood nostalgia with wholesome goodness.

Packed with hearty rolled oats and sweet raisins, this recipe captures the essence of a classic cookie in a convenient bar form.

The soft, chewy texture makes these bars an irresistible snack for any time of day.

Nutty undertones and warm cinnamon create a depth of flavor that elevates each bite beyond ordinary granola bars.

Perfectly balanced between sweet and wholesome, these bars offer a nutritious treat that satisfies morning hunger or afternoon cravings.

Rich with natural ingredients and simple to prepare, they promise a delightful experience for anyone seeking a homemade snack.

Prepare to fall in love with this easy, nourishing recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

FAQs

• Are these granola bars healthy?

Yes, they’re packed with nutritious oats, raisins, and natural ingredients, offering a balanced snack with whole grains and natural sweetness.

• Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap raisins for other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates, and add nuts for extra crunch and protein.

• How do I ensure my bars don't crumble?

Press the mixture very firmly into the pan, using even pressure to help the bars hold together. The refrigeration step is crucial for creating a solid, sturdy bar.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these?

No special equipment is needed – just a basic 8-inch square baking pan, parchment paper, and standard mixing tools like a spatula or wooden spoon.

Oatmeal Raisin Granola Bar Highlights

• Enjoy the warmth of classic oatmeal raisin cookies transformed into a convenient, portable granola bar that hugs your taste buds with familiar, homey flavors.
• Whip up these bars with minimal effort using just one bowl and basic mixing techniques, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels from beginners to seasoned pros.
• Pack a nutritious punch with hearty oats and sweet raisins, creating a satisfying treat that works beautifully for school lunches, post-workout refueling, or afternoon energy boosts.
• Prepare a batch ahead of time and store easily, ensuring you always have a delicious, grab-and-go snack ready whenever hunger strikes or you need a quick breakfast option.

Ingredients for Soft Oatmeal Raisin Granola Bars

• Rolled Oats: A hearty whole grain that provides a chewy texture and nutritional boost to the granola bars.
• Raisins: Sweet dried grapes that add natural sweetness and a soft, plump texture to the bars.

• Honey, Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that help bind the ingredients and provide a rich, deep flavor.
• Nut Butter: Creamy ingredient that acts as a sticky binder and adds rich, nutty undertones to the bars.

• Cinnamon, Vanilla Extract: Warm spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the granola bars.
• Salt: A small amount that balances and deepens the sweet flavors.
• Coconut Oil: Helps create a smooth texture and adds a subtle tropical note to the bars.

Kitchen Tools for Granola Bar Making

• 8-inch square baking pan: Essential for shaping and baking the granola bars.
• Parchment paper: Crucial for easy removal and preventing sticking.
• Rubber spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
• Wire rack: Helps cool bars evenly after baking.
• Sharp knife: Needed for cutting bars into neat pieces.

Stepwise Guide to Soft Oatmeal Raisin Bars

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up your oven to a cozy 325F (163C).

Grab an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper, making sure to create little handles on the sides so you can easily lift out your delicious creation later.

Step 2: Create Magical Mixture

• Rolled oats
• Raisins
• Honey
• Butter
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Salt

Grab a large mixing bowl and a trusty wooden spoon.

Combine all these ingredients, stirring with love until everything is perfectly blended and looks like a delectable cookie dough.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared pan.

Use your hands or a spatula to press down firmly, creating a smooth, compact layer.

Make sure it’s packed tight so your bars hold together beautifully.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes.

You’ll know they’re ready when the top looks set and the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 4: Cool and Transform

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

This takes about an hour.

For extra firmness, pop the pan in the refrigerator for another hour.

The chilling helps the bars set perfectly.

Use those parchment paper handles to lift the entire batch out, then slice into bars using a sharp knife.

Granola Bar Tips for Chewy Texture

• Press the mixture extremely firmly into the pan to ensure bars hold together well and don't fall apart when cut.
• Adjust baking time by 1-2 minutes for softer or crispier bars depending on personal preference for chewiness.
• Swap regular raisins with golden raisins or add chopped nuts like almonds for extra protein and crunch.
• Keep bars in airtight container at room temperature for 5 days or refrigerate for up to 10 days to maintain freshness.
• Toast oats briefly before mixing to develop a deeper, nuttier taste that elevates the overall granola bar profile.

Oatmeal Raisin Granola Bar Swaps and Additions

• Gluten-Free Oatmeal Bars: Replace regular oats with certified gluten-free oats for celiac and gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Chocolate Chip Variation: Swap raisins with dark chocolate chips for a richer, more decadent bar experience.
• Nut Lover's Edition: Add chopped almonds or pecans for extra crunch and protein, creating a heartier snack option.
• Vegan Friendly Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and replace eggs with ground flaxseed mixed with water to bind ingredients.

Serving Up Soft Oatmeal Raisin Bars

• Cookie Crumble Topping: Sprinkle crushed oatmeal raisin cookies over the granola bars for extra crunch and nostalgic cookie flavor.
• Yogurt Dip Delight: Serve with a side of vanilla or cinnamon Greek yogurt for a creamy, protein-packed accompaniment that complements the bars' sweetness.
• Breakfast Boost: Pack these bars in lunch boxes or enjoy as a quick morning meal alongside fresh berries and a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Ice Cream Sandwich Twist: Break a bar in half and sandwich between two scoops of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert treat.

Storage Tips for Homemade Granola Bars

• Store in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper for up to 5 days. Keeps bars fresh and prevents sticking.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bag. Freeze for 2-3 months for longer preservation.
• Remove frozen bars from freezer and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying. Maintains original texture and flavor.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed bars for 10-15 seconds on low power to restore softness and enhance taste.

Soft Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Granola Bars Recipe

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4.6 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 43 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Homemade soft oatmeal raisin cookie granola bars combine classic comfort with wholesome ingredients. Delicious snacks offer nostalgic flavors and nutritious goodness you can enjoy anytime.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup (85 grams / 3 ounces) old-fashioned whole rolled oats
• 3/4 cup (128 grams / 4.5 ounces) raisins
• 3/4 cup (100 grams / 3.5 ounces) chopped nuts (optional)

Binder and Flavor Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (56 grams / 2 ounces) coconut oil, melted
• 1/4 cup (63 grams / 2.2 ounces) nut butter (peanut butter recommended)
• 1/4 cup (85 grams / 3 ounces) honey
• 1/4 cup (50 grams / 1.8 ounces) coconut sugar or packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Dry Spice and Flour Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup (43 grams / 1.5 ounces) whole wheat flour or almond meal
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring excess paper hangs over the sides for easy bar removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients thoroughly, using a rubber spatula to blend until the mixture is completely uniform and well-integrated.
3. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, using firm, consistent pressure to create an even, compact layer that holds together tightly.
4. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes, watching for a set top and golden-brown edges that indicate proper doneness.
5. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the granola bars to cool completely at room temperature on a wire rack for approximately 1 hour.
6. After initial cooling, transfer the pan to the refrigerator and chill for an additional hour to help the bars firm up and set completely.
7. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, then slice into individual bars using a sharp knife, creating clean, even cuts.

Notes

• Pressing firmly ensures dense, chewy bars that hold together perfectly without crumbling.
• Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture and hearty consistency, avoiding quick oats which can make bars too mushy.
• Consider toasting oats before mixing to enhance nutty flavor and add deeper complexity to the granola bars.
• Swap raisins with dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips for delightful flavor variations that suit different taste preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg