Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of oatmeal cookies with a creamy icing. These cookie bars are perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. The unique texture and sweetness make them a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, they can be easily made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your event.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of oats, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting flavor profile.
• Versatile Treat – Enjoy these cookie bars as an afternoon snack, dessert, or even as part of a brunch spread.
• Make Ahead – These bars can be baked in advance and stored for several days, making them ideal for busy schedules.
• Customizable Icing – Feel free to add your favorite flavors or colors to the icing for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe, having the right tools on hand will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly; choose various sizes for convenience.
• Baking pan (9×13 inch) – This size is perfect for creating evenly baked cookie bars.
• Electric mixer or whisk – Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly.
• Rubber spatula – Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure no ingredients are left behind.

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). This ensures that your cookie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your baking pan lightly with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (if using), and salt.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients:
1. Mix until just combined – do not overmix.
2. Fold in old-fashioned rolled oats until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

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

Step 7: Cool & Prepare Icing

Once baked:
1. Allow the cookie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
2. In a separate bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to create icing.

Step 8: Ice Your Cookie Bars

Once cool:
1. Spread icing over the top of cooled cookie bars with an offset spatula.
2. Allow icing to set before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delightful Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bars with family and friends!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Iced oatmeal cookie bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, these bars are versatile and loved by many.

Enjoy with Coffee

• Pairing your iced oatmeal cookie bars with a cup of coffee enhances the flavors. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the icing.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Add a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on the side for an indulgent dessert. The warm cookie bar contrasts beautifully with cold ice cream.

Great for Breakfast

• These bars can also serve as a sweet breakfast option. They are easy to grab on busy mornings and provide energy to kickstart your day.

Perfect for Picnics

• Slice them into squares and pack them for picnics. Their portability makes them an ideal treat to enjoy outdoors.

Accompany with Fresh Fruits

• Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas add a refreshing touch. The natural sweetness of fruit complements the bar’s flavors well.

How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

Creating the perfect iced oatmeal cookie bar takes attention and care. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your recipe turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to come to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off; this prevents overpacking and results in a lighter bar.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bars tender; overmixing can lead to tough results.
• Cool before icing: Let the bars cool completely before spreading the icing. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon and nutmeg levels according to your taste preferences for enhanced flavor.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

While iced oatmeal cookie bars are delicious on their own, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the bars.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the cookie bars well.
3. Nutty Granola
   A side of nutty granola offers crunchiness and pairs nicely with the soft texture of the bars.
4. Chai-Spiced Tea
   A warm cup of chai tea provides spicy notes that enhance the flavors found in oatmeal cookie bars.
5. Whipped Cream
   A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and richness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
6. Chocolate Dipping Sauce
   Drizzle some chocolate sauce over or serve it on the side for those who love chocolatey treats alongside their cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong oats: Instant or quick-cooking oats do not yield the same texture. Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for best results.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Using too much flour or sugar can lead to dry or overly sweet bars. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the bars while they are still warm can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can result in hard cookie bars. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they are golden brown around the edges.
• Neglecting to sift powdered sugar: Sifting helps avoid lumps in your icing. Always sift it before mixing with milk for a smooth glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm bars for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How do I make the icing thicker?

Add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your recipe by adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

Preparation takes about 20 minutes, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking time.

What should I serve with these cookie bars?

These cookie bars pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

The Iced Oatmeal Cookie Bar Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats at home!