Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

The Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of oatmeal cookies with a smooth, sweet icing. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in, these bars offer a chewy texture and rich taste that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to every bite.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip this up with confidence.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—from birthday parties to holiday gatherings—this recipe fits right in.
• Satisfying Texture: The old-fashioned rolled oats provide a hearty chewiness that pairs perfectly with the creamy icing.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored, making them perfect for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious iced oatmeal cookie bars, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are vital for combining ingredients effectively without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: A great time-saver for creaming butter and sugars smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time.
• Baking pan (9×13-inch): The ideal size allows for even baking of your cookie bars.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars

• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g), softened to room temperature
• Light Brown Sugar: 1 cup (200g), packed
• Granulated Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
• Large Eggs: 2
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups (180g)
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, but highly recommended)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: 3 cups (270g) (not instant or quick-cooking)

For the Icing

• Powdered Sugar: 2 cups (240g), sifted
• Milk or Cream: 3-4 tablespoons (whole milk or heavy cream recommended for richness)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Pinch of Salt: (optional, to balance sweetness)

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat them together using an electric mixer until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Stir in Oats

Fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Ice

Let the bars cool completely on a cooling rack before icing them.

Step 8: Prepare Icing

In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt if desired. Mix until smooth. Spread over cooled cookie bars before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Serving your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these sweet treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your cookie bars with a refreshing glass of cold milk. The creaminess complements the sweetness perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of bananas or strawberries on top for a fruity twist. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely color.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookie bars with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a delightful contrast with the chewy bars.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some melted dark or white chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch. This adds richness and visual appeal.

With a Side of Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can enhance the texture and taste. Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Perfecting your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends better with sugars, resulting in a smoother batter and chewier texture.
• Don’t Skip the Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the right chewiness. Avoid instant oats as they won’t give the same texture.
• Chill Before Cutting: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting helps maintain their shape and makes serving easier.
• Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting powdered sugar ensures a lump-free icing that spreads beautifully over your cookie bars.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your icing before applying it. You can add more milk or sugar to achieve your desired sweetness level.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices like nutmeg or even a hint of ginger for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe can create a balanced dessert offering. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that complements the rich flavors of the cookie bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a creamy counterpart that balances sweetness.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add elegance and richness, making them perfect alongside cookie bars.
4. Nut Mix: A variety of nuts offers crunch and saltiness, contrasting nicely with the sweetness.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated touch that cuts through the sweetness.
6. Coffee or Tea: Serve with freshly brewed coffee or tea, providing warmth and depth that pairs well with desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Boldly skip the creaming process: Failing to cream the butter and sugars properly can result in dense bars. Make sure to beat them until light and fluffy.
• Boldly use instant oats: Instant oats won’t provide the right texture. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect how well they incorporate into the batter. Ensure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature.
• Boldly forget about sifting: Not sifting powdered sugar can lead to clumps in your icing. Always sift it before mixing for a smooth finish.
• Boldly underbake or overbake: Baking too long can dry out your bars, while underbaking might make them gooey. Keep an eye on baking time for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars?

You can serve these delicious bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. They pair well with coffee or tea!

Can I customize my Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to give your bars extra flavor and texture.

How can I make these bars healthier?

Consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or use less sugar if desired.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup with regular flour.

Final Thoughts

The Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe offers a delightful treat that combines chewy oats with a sweet glaze. These versatile cookie bars are perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or dessert. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruits!