Oatmeal Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are the perfect combination of wholesome oats and sweet, creamy frosting, offering both comfort and indulgence in every bite. These bars have a soft, chewy texture thanks to the oats, while the rich brown sugar frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness that elevates them from a simple snack to an irresistible dessert. Whether you’re looking for a treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or a dessert to bring to a gathering, these oatmeal bars are sure to please everyone. The deep flavor of brown sugar gives both the bars and the frosting a warm, caramel-like richness that pairs perfectly with the comforting flavor of cinnamon.

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The simplicity of the ingredients in these oatmeal bars makes them easy to whip up, yet the result is anything but ordinary. The oats provide a chewy, hearty base, while the butter, sugars, and eggs bring in the richness and moisture that makes these bars so deliciously soft. The addition of cinnamon and vanilla extract adds a cozy flavor profile, making these bars perfect for fall or winter, though they’re certainly enjoyable year-round. The real star of the show, however, is the brown sugar frosting. Made with butter, brown sugar, and powdered sugar, it’s a sweet, creamy topping that hardens slightly as it cools, creating a delightful contrast to the tender bars beneath.

These bars are highly versatile, and you can easily customize them to suit your taste. For a bit of crunch, try adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter. You can also toss in raisins or chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re looking for a slightly healthier version, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or even use rolled oats instead of instant oats for a heartier texture. The brown sugar frosting is rich and sweet, but you can adjust its sweetness by using dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor or reducing the powdered sugar if you prefer a less sweet topping.

Making these oatmeal bars is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels. The ingredients come together easily, and the frosting is quick to make as well. Once the bars are baked and cooled, you simply spread the frosting over the top and allow it to set before slicing into squares. These bars store well, making them a great option for making ahead or enjoying throughout the week. Whether you’re serving them for dessert or as a midday snack, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Bars):

• • - Calories: 320 kcal
  • - Protein: 3g
  • - Carbohydrates: 45g
  • - Fat: 14g
  • - Sugars: 30g
  • - Sodium: 150mg

Storage Information:

Oatmeal Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the bars for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature before serving, or enjoy them slightly chilled for a denser texture.

Oatmeal Bars are a wonderful base for customization, and the brown sugar frosting only enhances their versatility. While the recipe is delicious as is, you can easily add your own twist by incorporating different ingredients. Stir in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a chewy, tart contrast to the sweet frosting. If you’re a fan of nuts, chopped pecans or almonds make a great addition, offering a satisfying crunch. For a richer, more indulgent version, mix in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the frosting. You can even add a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness and create a sweet-salty combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

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Oatmeal Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting Recipe

For the bars:

• - 1 cup instant oats
• - 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
• - 1 1/2 cups boiling water
• - 1 cup granulated sugar
• - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• - 2 large eggs
• - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• - 1 teaspoon baking soda
• - 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the frosting:

• - 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• - 1/4 cup milk
• - 2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, combine the instant oats and boiling water. Stir and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to soften the oats.

3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

5. Fold the softened oats into the batter until evenly distributed. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.

7. To make the frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add the milk and bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.

8. Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and thick. Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and let it set before cutting into squares.

These Oatmeal Bars with Brown Sugar Frosting are the perfect combination of chewy oats and sweet, creamy frosting. Whether you enjoy them as-is or add your own personal touch, they’re a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!