Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the heartiness of oats with a sweet, creamy icing. Perfect for gatherings, snack time, or just a cozy afternoon at home, these bars are easy to make and equally enjoyable to eat. The comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla make them a standout option for any occasion. Get ready to whip up a batch that will satisfy your cravings and impress your friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of oats, warm spices, and creamy icing creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply as an everyday snack. Customize them with your favorite toppings!
• Make-Ahead Option: These bars can be baked in advance and stored, making them a great option for busy schedules.
• Kid-Friendly: A fun recipe that kids will love to help with, from mixing ingredients to spreading the icing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure that you don’t miss any steps.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a smooth texture.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking, crucial for achieving the perfect cookie bar consistency.

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)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: 3 cups (270g)

For the Icing

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

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking pan will help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Oats

Fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan:
1. Spread it evenly using a rubber spatula.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

While bars are cooling:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine sifted powdered sugar, milk or cream, and additional vanilla extract.
2. Mix until smooth; adjust consistency with more milk if needed.

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled:
1. Drizzle or spread icing over the top of your oatmeal cookie bars.
2. Allow icing to set before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Serving your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars can elevate any gathering or dessert table. These delightful treats are versatile and pair well with various accompaniments.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic combination, serving these bars with cold milk enhances their sweetness and provides a creamy texture that complements the oats.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Add a burst of freshness by topping each bar with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness balances the sweetness perfectly.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• For an indulgent dessert, serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The contrast in temperatures creates a delicious experience.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Elevate the flavor by drizzling caramel sauce over the iced bars. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookie bars alongside your favorite hot beverage. The warmth of coffee or tea contrasts beautifully with the chilled icing.

How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Perfecting your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars can be simple with a few key tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon and level method to measure your flour correctly. This prevents dry bars that can crumble easily.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Allowing the bars to cool completely before icing helps the icing set properly and keeps it from running off.
• Experiment with spices: Adding nutmeg or even a pinch of ginger can enhance flavors. Adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Cut into uniform sizes: For even baking and presentation, cut your bars into equal pieces once cooled for consistent serving sizes.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

When serving Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars, consider pairing them with side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookie bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that contrasts well with the cookies’ texture.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, like sharp cheddar or creamy brie, offers a savory contrast that pairs nicely with sweet treats.
4. Nuts and Seeds Mix: A crunchy blend of almonds, walnuts, and sunflower seeds provides texture and healthy fats as a snack on the side.
5. Homemade Chia Pudding: This creamy pudding topped with berries makes for an elegant addition that’s also nutritious.
6. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet flavor combination makes these a fun treat alongside your iced cookie bars.

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 watch out for:

• Skipping room temperature butter: Using cold butter can lead to a dense texture. Make sure your butter is soft to blend smoothly with sugars.
• Not measuring oats properly: Too many oats can make the bars dry. Always use the specified amount of old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results.
• Overbaking the bars: Overbaked cookie bars can become hard and crumbly. Take them out when they are just set in the center for a soft bite.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Cold eggs or milk can affect mixing. Allow your eggs and milk to reach room temperature before using them in the recipe.
• Rushing the icing: If you pour icing on warm bars, it may melt and run off. Let your cookie bars cool completely before icing them for a beautiful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your iced oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store iced oatmeal cookie bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze individually wrapped bars for longer storage.

Can I customize my Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the batter before baking for added flavor and texture.

How do I know when my cookie bars are done baking?

The edges will be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats as quick oats may alter the texture of your cookie bars.

What if my icing is too runny?

If your icing is too thin, add more powdered sugar until you achieve your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tiny splash of milk or cream.

Final Thoughts

This Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or dessert, these cookie bars are sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every bite!