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Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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4.7 from 104 reviews

Deliciously chewy oatmeal chocolate chip bars topped with a smooth and creamy cream cheese frosting. These bars combine the hearty texture of oats with gooey chocolate chips and a rich frosting, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Bars

  • 6 tablespoons salted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup (80g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ¾ cup (97g) all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 cup (100g) quick oats
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (170g) chocolate chips
  • ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts (optional)

Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 4 oz block-style cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter, softened
  • 1½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch metal pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
  2. Mix butter and sugars: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until thoroughly combined, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. The batter will be somewhat thin.
  4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, quick oats, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
  5. Mix dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and mix until everything is fully combined. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and optional chopped walnuts.
  6. Spread dough in pan: Scoop the dough into the prepared pan and use moistened fingertips or a spatula to press and spread it evenly. For a prettier presentation, optionally place several chocolate chips on top.
  7. Bake the bars: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden brown and the edges begin to darken. The center may still be slightly underbaked for a chewy texture. Remove from the oven and set on a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Prepare frosting: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until fully combined and smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract and continue beating until light and fluffy, scraping the bowl as needed. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
  9. Frost the bars: Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy.

Notes

  • Using a metal pan helps with even baking and better browning.
  • Moistening your fingertips makes it easier to press dough evenly without sticking.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the chopped walnuts.
  • You can use either light or dark brown sugar; this will slightly affect the flavor depth.
  • These bars are best stored refrigerated if not eaten right away due to the cream cheese frosting.

Keywords: oatmeal bars, chocolate chip bars, cream cheese frosting, baked dessert, easy dessert bars, oatmeal cookies, chocolate chip dessert

Find it online: https://amayaharis.com/oatmeal-chocolate-chip-bars-with-cream-cheese-frosting-recipe/