Why Make This Recipe
Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cookie we’ve all loved. They combine chewy oatmeal and sweet cream filling in a bar form, making them perfect for snacks, desserts, or even a lunchbox treat. These bars are easy to make and are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, they offer a homemade touch that store-bought treats just can’t match.
How to Make Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
To create these delicious Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and some easy steps to follow.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the creamed mixture until just blended.
- Stir in the oats.
- Spread half of the oatmeal batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden and set. Let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the cream filling.
- Once the first layer has cooled, spread the cream filling evenly over the top.
- Take the remaining oatmeal batter and drop spoonfuls over the filling, carefully spreading it as best as you can – it won’t cover entirely.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden.
- Let it cool completely before slicing into wedges and serving.
How to Serve Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars are best served at room temperature. You can cut them into small squares or wedges and serve them on a plate. They also make great snacks for a picnic or a quick dessert after dinner. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for an extra treat.
How to Store Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
To store your Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.
Tips to Make Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
- Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Don’t skip the cooling step before adding the cream filling; this helps the layers stay together.
- If you want extra flavor, try adding some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the oatmeal batter.
Variation
You can customize these bars by adding different mix-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or even a hint of nutmeg for added spice. You might also try swapping the oats for a gluten-free oat option if needed.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars?
Absolutely! Make sure they are completely cooled and then wrap them well before freezing.
What if I don’t have rolled oats?
You can substitute with quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different.
Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups rolled oats You may substitute with quick oats, but the texture will differ.
For the Cream Filling
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the creamed mixture until just blended.
- Stir in the oats.
Baking
- Spread half of the oatmeal batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden and set. Let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the cream filling.
- Once the first layer has cooled, spread the cream filling evenly over the top.
- Take the remaining oatmeal batter and drop spoonfuls over the filling, carefully spreading it as best as you can – it won’t cover entirely.
- Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden.
- Let it cool completely before slicing into wedges and serving.