Are you looking for a healthy snack that’s also tasty? Look no further than these oatmeal raisin bars! They’re easy to make and full of fiber, making them a guilt-free choice.
Imagine taking a bite of a chewy oat bar, with cinnamon and juicy raisins adding sweetness. These bars are the perfect mix of healthy and tasty. They’re great for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a nutritious snack.
Key Takeaways
- Delicious and easy-to-make oatmeal raisin bars with wholesome ingredients
- Chewy texture and rich flavor perfect for any time of day
- Fiber-rich snack or dessert option that satisfies cravings
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with different dried fruits
- Quick prep time and minimal baking required for a homemade treat
What are Oatmeal Raisin Bars?
Oatmeal raisin bars are a tasty homemade treat. They mix the goodness of rolled oats with the sweetness of raisins. These chewy oat bars are packed with wholesome ingredients. They make a fiber-rich snack or dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Chewy Oat Bars with Plump Raisins
The secret to these oatmeal raisin bars is their perfect mix of textures and tastes. The oats give a chewy base, while the raisins add sweet bursts. Together, they create a delicious experience.
Wholesome Ingredients for a Fiber-Rich Treat
These fiber-rich treats use simple, wholesome ingredients that are good for you. The recipe includes rolled oats, flour, butter, eggs, sugar, and spices. This mix makes a snack or dessert that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) |
| Light-brown sugar | ¾ cup (packed) |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | ½ teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Old-fashioned rolled oats | 2 cups |
| Raisins | 1 cup |
These wholesome ingredients come together to make a tasty and healthy oatmeal raisin bar. You can enjoy them as a snack or add them to a balanced breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients for Homemade Oatmeal Raisin Bars
To make the perfect oatmeal raisin bars, you need some great ingredients. You’ll use all-purpose flour and rolled oats for the base. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of salt for sweetness and spice. The wet ingredients include a single egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract to hold it all together and add flavor.
All-Purpose Flour and Rolled Oats
The heart of these bars is a mix of all-purpose flour and rolled oats. Flour gives them strength, while oats make them chewy and hearty.
Sugars, Spices, and Vanilla Extract
For sweetness, you’ll mix brown sugar and granulated sugar. Brown sugar adds a deep flavor, and granulated sugar adds crispness. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth, and vanilla extract boosts the flavor.
Egg, Butter, and Juicy Raisins
A single egg and melted butter mix the ingredients together, making them moist. The real star is the plump, juicy raisins, adding flavor and chewiness.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 1/2 cups (190g) |
| Rolled Oats | 1 1/2 cups (150g) |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup (100g) |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/4 cup (50g) |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Unsalted Butter, melted | 1/2 cup (113g) |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Raisins | 1 cup (150g) |
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions
Making delicious homemade oatmeal raisin bars is easy. First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Pan
Once the oven is ready, grease the parchment-lined pan. This prevents the bars from sticking. It makes baking and serving easier.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir the dry ingredients until they’re well combined.
Incorporating the Wet Ingredients
Make a well in the dry mix and add the wet ingredients. These are a beaten egg, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Fold these together gently until the batter is smooth, without overmixing.
Then, add the plump raisins. Mix them in so they’re spread out in the batter. This adds a fruity twist to each bite.
With the oven hot, the pan ready, and ingredients mixed, your homemade oatmeal raisin bars are set to bake. The next steps will show you how to bake and cool them to get that perfect chewy texture.
Baking Time and Cooling Process
After mixing the batter, pour it into a baking pan. Spread it evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22-26 minutes. The bars are done when the center is no longer wet and the edges are golden.
Checking for Doneness
Watch your baking oatmeal raisin bars closely. Use a toothpick or knife to check the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready to be taken out of the oven.
Allowing the Bars to Cool Completely
After confirming they’re done, let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling process is crucial for their chewy texture. Waiting is worth it!
Follow these steps for delicious homemade oatmeal raisin bars. They’ll have a bakery-quality taste and texture. Remember, cooling is as important as baking time. Let them set before slicing and serving.
Cutting and Serving Oatmeal Raisin Bars
After the oatmeal raisin bars cool down, it’s time to cut them. Use a sharp knife for clean, straight cuts. This makes the bars look good and easy to serve.
Enjoy these cutting oatmeal raisin bars as a snack or with milk or coffee. They’re chewy and have juicy raisins. This makes them a favorite for those who love oatmeal raisin cookies.
Here are some tips for serving oatmeal raisin bars:
- Cut the cooled bars into 18 rectangular pieces for a generous serving size.
- For a more bite-sized option, cut the bars into smaller squares or triangles.
- Arrange the bars on a serving platter or plate, allowing each one to be easily accessible.
- Optionally, dust the cutting oatmeal raisin bars with a light coating of powdered sugar or drizzle with a touch of caramel sauce for added elegance.
These cutting oatmeal raisin bars are perfect for a quick snack or to share with others. Their flavor and texture will make everyone happy.
Storing Homemade Oatmeal Raisin Bars
Freshly baked oatmeal raisin bars are a delightful treat. But how can you keep them fresh and enjoyable? Whether you’re planning to savor them over the next few days or want to stock up for later, there are a few simple tips to keep your homemade bars at their best.
Keeping them Fresh at Room Temperature
Storing oatmeal raisin bars is easy. Simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy their chewy, oat-y goodness throughout the week. To prevent the bars from drying out, make sure the container is tightly sealed.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
For longer-term storage, you can freeze your oatmeal raisin bars. Arrange the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, they’ll retain their flavor and texture for up to 6 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen bars, simply thaw them at room temperature before serving. This makes them an excellent grab-and-go option for busy mornings or a quick, nutritious snack.
“Homemade oatmeal raisin bars are not only delicious, but they’re also a great way to control the ingredients and enjoy a healthier treat.”
By following these simple storage tips, you can ensure your homemade oatmeal raisin bars stay fresh and flavorful. Whether you’re keeping them at room temperature or freezing them for later, they’ll be ready to enjoy.
Nutritional Benefits of Oatmeal Raisin Bars
Oatmeal raisin bars are more than a tasty treat. They are a fiber-rich snack or breakfast that brings many health benefits. The rolled oats in these bars are full of both soluble and insoluble fiber. This helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Raisins add their own fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to the mix. They make the bars even healthier.
A Fiber-Rich Snack or Breakfast
One serving of these bars gives you 23% of the daily fiber you need. The oats and raisins together make these bars a great choice for a fiber-rich snack or fiber-rich breakfast. They also have a good mix of carbs, fats, and protein.
These bars are not just high in fiber. They also have protein, potassium, and many vitamins and minerals. You’ll find copper, manganese, and niacin in them.
“Oatmeal raisin bars are a nutritious and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.”
Oatmeal raisin bars are a great choice for a fiber-rich snack or fiber-rich breakfast. They are made with wholesome ingredients and have a balanced nutritional profile. They are perfect for boosting your fiber intake, satisfying a craving, or starting your day off right.
Kid-Friendly and Grab-and-Go Treats
Oatmeal raisin bars are loved by both kids and adults. They have a chewy texture and a sweet, wholesome taste. These kid-friendly oatmeal raisin bars are great for quick snacks or meals on the go.
This recipe makes about 20 bars, perfect for hungry toddlers. Kids love them so much, they might eat 3-4 bars a day. The bars are soft and chewy, making them a favorite among young ones.
To keep the bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Or, freeze them for even longer. Made with bananas, maple syrup, oats, peanut butter, eggs, and blueberries, they’re a healthy choice for your family.
FAQ
What are oatmeal raisin bars?
Oatmeal raisin bars are a homemade treat. They have a chewy oat base with juicy raisins. Made with wholesome ingredients, they’re a fiber-rich snack.
What ingredients are needed to make homemade oatmeal raisin bars?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar. Also, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt are key. An egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lots of raisins are also needed.
How do you make homemade oatmeal raisin bars?
First, preheat your oven and line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper. Mix dry ingredients, then add wet ones, folding until combined. Put the batter in the pan and bake until golden and set.
How long do you bake oatmeal raisin bars?
Bake at 350°F for 22-26 minutes. They’re done when the center is no longer wet and the edges are golden.
How do you store homemade oatmeal raisin bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 6 months in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
What are the nutritional benefits of oatmeal raisin bars?
They’re a nutritious treat, rich in fiber. Rolled oats help with digestion and fullness. Raisins add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Are oatmeal raisin bars suitable for kids and adults?
Yes, they’re great for both kids and adults. Their chewy texture and wholesome flavor make them a favorite snack. They’re perfect for lunches, quick breakfasts, or as a healthy treat on the go.