Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back warm memories of childhood, you’ve landed in the right place! This Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is a beloved favorite in my home. The chewy, hearty texture of oats combined with a sweet icing makes these bars irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family gathering, these cookie bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and sharing with loved ones.

What makes this recipe even more special is how incredibly easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it a go-to for any occasion. Plus, who can resist the comforting aroma of freshly baked oatmeal cookies wafting through the house?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With minimal prep time, you can have these delicious bars in the oven in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cookies! This recipe brings smiles to faces of all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and creamy frosting creates an unforgettable taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or toppings for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is part of the fun! These are simple, wholesome items you likely already have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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)

Variations

One of the best things about this Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Add chocolate chips: Fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Mix in dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or even chopped apricots work wonderfully with oats.
• Top with sprinkles: Add a pop of color by sprinkling some colorful sprinkles on top of the icing.

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat them together until creamy and smooth. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your bars a lovely texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully combined. The eggs help bind everything together while adding moisture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (if using), and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Fold in Oats

Finally, gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats. These oats give your cookie bars that hearty chewiness we all love.

Step 6: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into a greased baking dish and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and set in the middle. Allow them to cool completely before icing.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and optional pinch of salt until smooth. The icing should be thick yet pourable.

Step 8: Ice Your Bars

Once your cookie bars are cool, drizzle the icing generously over the top. Let it set before cutting into squares.

And there you have it—your very own homemade Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with friends and family—they’re sure to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Baking should be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure that your iced oatmeal cookie bars turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps them blend more easily, creating a smooth batter that bakes evenly.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: If you decide to chill the dough before baking, it will help the bars maintain their shape and prevent them from spreading too much in the oven.

• Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting flour and powdered sugar removes lumps and aerates the ingredients, leading to a lighter texture in your cookie bars.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Just keep the total amount under 1 cup to maintain the right consistency.

• Check for doneness: Every oven is different; start checking your bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

These iced oatmeal cookie bars are not just delicious; they can also be presented beautifully! Here are some fun ideas to serve them up.

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top adds both flavor and visual appeal.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the soft texture of the bars.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the bars.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy side that complements the chewy texture of the cookie bars.
• Hot Chocolate or Herbal Tea: A warm drink can enhance your dessert experience. Hot chocolate offers richness while herbal tea adds a calming touch.
• Milkshake: Whip up a simple vanilla milkshake for a nostalgic pairing that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike!

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy these delicious treats throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly so they stay fresh and delightful.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your iced oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating them to keep the icing from melting.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the cookie bars into individual pieces and layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

• If you prefer your bars warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• For a crispy edge, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful recipe!

Can I use quick oats in the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

While quick oats can be used, old-fashioned rolled oats provide a chewier texture that enhances the overall flavor and consistency of the bars.

What makes this Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe special?

The combination of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and depth, while the creamy icing elevates these bars into a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

How do I adjust the sweetness in my Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

You can reduce the amount of granulated sugar or powdered sugar if you prefer less sweetness. Start with a small adjustment and taste as you go!

Can I substitute dairy milk in the icing?

Absolutely! You can use plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk or oat milk, but keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste and creaminess of the icing.

How long will it take to prepare the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

From start to finish, including baking time, it typically takes about 45 minutes to prepare these delicious bars.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe! It’s not just about indulging in sweet treats; it’s about creating memories with friends and family. Whether you’re enjoying these bars at home or sharing them with loved ones, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!