Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

The Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With its chewy texture and sweet icing, these cookie bars are sure to be a hit at parties, family gatherings, or just as a comforting snack. This recipe combines the classic flavors of oatmeal cookies with a creamy icing that elevates the experience. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of oats, spices, and sweet icing creates a flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: These cookie bars are great for any occasion—be it a birthday party, potluck, or simply an afternoon snack.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips for an extra twist!
• Perfectly Iced: The smooth icing on top adds sweetness without overwhelming the hearty oatmeal base.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smoother, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready ensures you can focus on creating your delicious iced oatmeal cookie bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking of the cookie bars.

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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). Greasing your baking pan lightly will help ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream them together until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Fold in Oats

Gently fold in old-fashioned rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Avoid over-mixing.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Spread the cookie dough into your prepared baking pan evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Prepare Icing

Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For icing, mix powdered sugar with milk or cream until smooth. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt if desired.

Step 8: Ice Your Cookie Bars

Once cooled, spread the icing generously over the top of your cookie bars using a spatula. Allow it to set slightly before cutting your bars into squares.

Enjoy this Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe as an everyday treat or special dessert!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Serving your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars can elevate the experience for you and your guests. These bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their flavor and presentation.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookie bars with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination. The creamy texture perfectly complements the sweetness of the icing.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the iced cookie bars on a platter with fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries. This adds color and freshness to your dessert table.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices of the cookie bars topped with a scoop of vanilla or your favorite ice cream. The contrast between warm and cold is delightful.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookie bars alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The spices in the cookies pair well with a variety of brews.

How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

To ensure your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and powdered sugar helps eliminate lumps, resulting in a smoother batter and icing.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid tough bars. Overmixing can affect the texture.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary. The bars should be golden brown but not overbaked.
• Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow the cookie bars to cool completely before adding icing for better adhesion and appearance.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars can enhance their flavors and make for an unforgettable meal. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookie bars.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in individual cups for a creamy, crunchy side that complements the dessert.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda which balance out the sweetness of the cookie bars.

4. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These sweet treats add elegance and richness alongside your iced oatmeal cookies.

5. Chilled Lemonade
   A refreshing glass of lemonade cuts through the sweetness while providing a zesty kick.

6. Nut Mix
   Offer a bowl of mixed nuts for a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with a delicious recipe like Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your bars. Always ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Using instant oats: Instant oats won’t provide the chewy texture you want. Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the bars while they are still warm can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccuracies can ruin your recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

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

Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on a plate for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Warm bars for a few minutes, flipping gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe:

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

You should avoid quick oats as they don’t provide the same chewy texture as old-fashioned rolled oats.

How do I customize my Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars?

Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.

What is the best way to frost these cookie bars?

A simple icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract works beautifully. Adjust consistency with more milk if needed.

How long do these cookie bars last?

When stored properly, they will last about 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. They make a perfect treat for any occasion, so give this recipe a try!