Name: Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars: 12 Irresistible Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492035H56M15S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups rolled oats (use quick-cooking oats for a finer texture); 1 tsp cinnamon; ⅓ cup chopped pecans or walnuts; 1 cup raisins (reserve a handful to sprinkle on top); Pinch of salt; 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 large bananas); 1 cup creamy peanut butter (can substitute almond or cashew butter); ⅓ cup maple syrup

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Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars are a delightful and wholesome snack, perfect for a quick breakfast or an energizing treat. Packed with nutritious ingredients like rolled oats, mashed bananas, and peanut butter, these bars are not only easy to make but also full of flavor. Enjoy them warm or cooled, they are ideal for those busy mornings or afternoon cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars

This recipe for Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars is a favorite for several reasons. First, they provide a satisfying chewiness that keeps you coming back for more. The combination of ripe bananas and maple syrup adds natural sweetness, while the oats offer a hearty texture. Additionally, they are a fantastic source of energy, making them perfect as oatmeal raisin snack bars or breakfast bars. The use of nuts like pecans or walnuts enhances the flavor profile, delivering healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. Also, they can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs, such as vegan chewy oatmeal raisin bars or gluten-free oatmeal raisin bars. Plus, they are quick to whip up, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars: 12 Irresistible Treats - Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars - main visual representation

Ingredients for Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars

Gather these items:

4 cups rolled oats (use quick-cooking oats for a finer texture)
1 tsp cinnamon
⅓ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1 cup raisins (reserve a handful to sprinkle on top)
Pinch of salt
1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 large bananas)
1 cup creamy peanut butter (can substitute almond or cashew butter)
⅓ cup maple syrup

How to Make Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the bars evenly.
Step 2: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, and maple syrup until smooth.
Step 4: Add the rolled oats, salt, cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins to the wet mixture. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly and pressing down with a spatula.
Step 6: Sprinkle the reserved handful of raisins over the top.
Step 7: Bake for 22–26 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into 12 square bars.
Step 9: Enjoy the bars warm or cooled. For storage, wrap each bar individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

Pro Tips for the Best Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars

Keep these in mind:

Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness, which enhances the flavor of your homemade chewy oatmeal raisin bars.
Experiment with different nuts or add chocolate chips for variation.
Store in an airtight container for freshness; they make for excellent chewy oatmeal raisin protein bars.
Monitor the baking time closely to prevent overbaking, maintaining that soft texture.

Best Ways to Serve Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars

These bars can be enjoyed in various ways:

Serve them as a quick breakfast option alongside a smoothie.
Pair them with a cup of coffee for a delightful snack in the afternoon.
They also make an excellent base for a chewy oatmeal raisin dessert by drizzling melted chocolate on top.

How to Store and Reheat Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars

To keep your Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars fresh, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. This is a great meal prep option to have on hand!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars

What are chewy oatmeal raisin bars?

Chewy oatmeal raisin bars are delicious baked treats made with rolled oats, raisins, and often nut butter, providing a soft and chewy texture. They are perfect as a healthy snack or a breakfast option.

Can I make chewy oatmeal raisin bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these bars ahead of time. They store well in an airtight container or can be frozen individually for later enjoyment.

How do I avoid common mistakes with chewy oatmeal raisin bars?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness and monitor the baking time closely to achieve the perfect chewy texture.

Variations of Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Bars You Can Try

Feel free to mix things up with these variations:

Try no-bake chewy oatmeal raisin bars using almond butter instead of peanut butter.
Substitute dried cranberries for raisins for a different flavor.
Make them gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats.
For a protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet twist!

For more information on the health benefits of oats, visit Healthline.