Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

These Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With their perfectly moist and chewy texture, these bars are warmly spiced and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze. They are not only easy to make but also fun to share with friends and family. Enjoy them as an afternoon snack, dessert, or even a breakfast treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal kitchen skills, making it ideal for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of oats, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: These cookie bars can be enjoyed at any time of the day—breakfast, snack, or dessert!
• One-Pan Wonder: Skip the hassle of multiple bowls and pans; everything is mixed in one pan for easy cleanup.
• Fun for Sharing: Cut into squares, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or events.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delicious iced oatmeal cookie bars, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking pan (8 x 8 inch)
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowl
• Food processor
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Wire cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: The right size ensures even baking and the perfect thickness for your cookie bars.
• Food processor: Quickly cuts oats into smaller pieces without turning them into flour.
• Wire cooling rack: Allows air to circulate around the bars as they cool, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

These iced oatmeal cookie bars are perfectly moist and chewy, warmly spiced and drizzled with a sweet vanilla glaze. So easy to make and fun to share, these quick one-pan bars are delicious any time of day!

For the Cookie Bars

• 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 cup (95 g) old fashioned oats
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (140 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon molasses (or honey)

For the Icing

• 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 to 2 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 x 8 inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Oats

Melt the butter in a medium-sized bowl. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, pulse the oats in a food processor until they are cut into smaller bits—avoid turning them into oat flour.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pulsed oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

To the melted butter, add both granulated sugar and brown sugar. Mix on low speed or use a whisk for about one minute until it resembles wet sand.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture followed by vanilla and molasses. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a large spatula or wooden spoon to fold everything together gently until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the dough into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 20 to 24 minutes until edges are set and top is golden brown. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist.

Step 8: Cool

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan on a wire cooling rack for about 1 to 2 hours until at room temperature. Ensure they are completely cool before icing.

Enjoy your homemade iced oatmeal cookie bars! They’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

These iced oatmeal cookie bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with various accompaniments to elevate the experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Enjoy these bars alongside a hot cup of coffee for a comforting morning treat.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of fresh banana or berries on top for added flavor and nutrition.

As Dessert with Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Paired with Tea

• Complement your afternoon tea with these sweet bars for a satisfying snack.

For Breakfast on the Go

• Cut into smaller squares to pack as a quick breakfast option, perfect for busy mornings.

How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

To make your iced oatmeal cookie bars even more irresistible, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that your bars turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.

• Don’t Overmix: Fold the dry ingredients into the wet just until combined to keep the bars soft and chewy.

• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; remove them from the oven when edges are set but the center is still slightly soft.

• Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow the cookie bars to cool fully before adding icing to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

These iced oatmeal cookie bars can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some suggestions:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy contrast.
3. Nut Mix: A combination of almonds and walnuts provides crunch and nuttiness.
4. Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like cream cheese or Brie for a savory twist.
5. Vegetable Sticks: Crunchy carrots and celery sticks offer a healthy side option.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: A light pudding can serve as a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making iced oatmeal cookie bars can be simple, but a few common pitfalls can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Always use measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients to ensure the right texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
• Skipping cooling time: It’s essential to let the bars cool completely before icing. If you apply the glaze too early, it will melt and run off.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; overbaking can make them dry. They should be golden brown but still moist in the center when you take them out.
• Using cold eggs: Room temperature eggs mix better with other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter. Take them out of the fridge ahead of time.
• Not lining the baking pan: Lining with parchment paper makes it easy to remove the bars without sticking or breaking. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover iced oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• For best flavor, consume within the first few days.

Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Frozen bars will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover and warm for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

What makes these Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars special?

These cookie bars are soft, chewy, and spiced just right. The sweet vanilla glaze adds an irresistible touch that elevates them beyond traditional cookies.

Can I customize the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to enhance flavor and texture according to your preferences.

How do I store leftover Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Why did my cookie bars turn out dry?

Overbaking is often the culprit. Make sure to keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as they should be golden brown but not hard.

Final Thoughts

These iced oatmeal cookie bars are a delightful treat that combines warmth with sweetness, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to tailor them with various mix-ins while still maintaining that classic flavor. Try making these easy bars today, and enjoy sharing them with friends and family!