Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars (gluten-free + dairy-free)

These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are a must try! They’re a twist on oatmeal cookies, so delicious dipped in milk and they’re made with gluten-free and dairy free-friendly ingredients.

If you’re looking for a wholesome, chewy treat that’s packed with flavor but free from gluten and dairy, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are perfect for you. They have that comforting oatmeal cookie flavor, balanced with the sweetness of raisins and the subtle warmth of cinnamon. Whether you’re gluten intolerant, dairy-free, or simply looking for a healthier twist on a classic, these cookie bars will quickly become a favorite snack or dessert in your household.

In this post, we’ll explore what makes these cookie bars so special, go over the simple ingredient list, and guide you through the step-by-step process of making them. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars:

These cookie bars are perfect for so many reasons. Not only are they gluten-free and dairy-free, but they’re also easy to make and require just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Here’s why they’ll win you over:

1. Naturally Sweetened: Instead of refined sugar, this recipe uses coconut sugar, which has a lower glycemic index and imparts a subtle caramel-like flavor.
2. Healthier Fats: You have the option to use either melted coconut oil or dairy-free butter, both of which offer healthy fats and a moist texture.
3. Nut Butter or Tahini: Adding nut butter (or tahini for a nut-free version) creates a rich and creamy texture while providing additional nutrients.
4. Easy to Make: The prep time is quick, and the recipe is simple, making these bars ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu baking sessions.
5. Naturally Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free rolled oats and gluten-free flour, they’re safe for those with gluten sensitivities but taste just as good as traditional versions.

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars:

For these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars, you’ll only need a few pantry staples. Here’s the ingredient list:

• Eggs – These help bind the ingredients together and give the bars structure.
• Coconut sugar – A better alternative to refined sugar, coconut sugar has a lower glycemic impact and adds a touch of natural sweetness.
• Creamy nut butter or tahini – This adds richness and helps to create a moist, chewy texture.
• Coconut oil or butter – Provides moisture and gives the bars a soft texture.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the cookie bars.
• Gluten-free rolled oats -A great source of fiber, oats bring texture and heartiness to the bars.
• Gluten-free flour – Ensures the bars hold their shape and structure without the gluten.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm and comforting spice that pairs perfectly with the raisins.
• Raisins – The star of the show! Raisins add bursts of natural sweetness in every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Let’s walk through the process of making these chewy, delicious Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars:

1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare an 8×8 baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and greasing it well with non-stick spray or a little extra coconut oil. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make it easier to remove them once baked.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut sugar, nut butter (or tahini), melted and cooled coconut oil (or dairy-free butter), and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This wet mixture is what will give the bars their rich, chewy texture.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
Next, add the gluten-free rolled oats, gluten-free flour, cinnamon, and baking powder into the bowl. Stir until everything is evenly combined. The oats will give these bars their signature chewy texture, while the flour helps bind the ingredients together.

4. Fold in the Raisins:
Gently fold in the raisins, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. The raisins add bursts of sweetness that complement the rich oat and cinnamon flavors.

5. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth the top so that the bars bake uniformly.

6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. If you prefer your cookie bars to be gooey in the center, take them out closer to the 18-minute mark. For a firmer, more traditional cookie bar texture, let them bake closer to 22 minutes or until the top is slightly golden brown.

7. Let Them Cool Completely:
This is perhaps the hardest step! Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish before slicing them. If you try to cut them while they’re still hot, they will likely crumble. Once the bars are fully cooled, remove them from the baking dish and slice them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. 

Customization Ideas for these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars:

These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars are versatile and can be adapted to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for variations:

• Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re a fan of chocolate, you can throw in a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips alongside the raisins for a sweet twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Use tahini or sunflower seed butter instead of nut butter for a completely nut-free version.
• Extra Add-Ins: For more texture and flavor, try adding chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, or seeds.
• Spice It Up: Enhance the warmth of the cinnamon by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

These Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars make an excellent snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you need a grab-and-go breakfast, a lunchbox treat, or something sweet to enjoy after dinner, these bars have you covered. They’re also great for potlucks, parties, or gifting to friends, as they hold up well and are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

There’s something so nostalgic about the flavor of oatmeal raisin cookies, and these Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Barscapture all that nostalgia with the added benefits of being gluten-free and dairy-free. With their chewy texture, perfectly sweet flavor, and wholesome ingredients, they’re a treat you can feel good about indulging in. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth any time of day.

So, the next time you’re in the mood for baking, give these bars a try. You won’t be disappointed!

A few other delicious desserts gluten-free to make:

Brown Butter Birthday Cake Banana Blondies (gluten-free)

The BEST Gluten-free Brownie Recipe

Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies (gluten-free)

Dreamy Sprinkle Sugar Cookies (gluten-free)