why make this recipe
Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic treat. They combine soft, chewy oats with the sweetness of marshmallow filling, making them perfect for snacks or dessert. These bars are easy to make and are sure to please both kids and adults. They also have a nostalgic quality, reminding many of the beloved oatmeal cream pies from childhood.
how to make Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture until well combined.
- Stir in the oats until fully incorporated.
- Spread half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 15 minutes until set but not too browned.
- In a separate bowl, mix the marshmallow fluff and powdered sugar to create the filling. Spread the filling over the baked bottom layer.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the marshmallow filling. Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool, then slice into bars and enjoy!
how to serve Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. They make a great dessert to share at parties, picnics, or family gatherings. For an extra treat, you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
how to store Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
Store the Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life, up to two weeks. If you want to keep them for even longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap each bar in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming with the sugars.
- Do not skip the resting time after baking; this helps the bars firm up.
- You can add chocolate chips or nuts to the oatmeal mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
variation
You can customize the filling by adding a layer of chocolate ganache instead of marshmallow fluff. This adds a rich chocolate flavor that pairs well with the oats. You can also add spices like nutmeg or use different kinds of oats for a unique texture.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture of the bars will be different. Quick oats will make the bars more chewy.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars should be golden brown on top and set in the middle. You can insert a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Oatmeal Cream Pie Bars
Ingredients
For the base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure it's softened for easy creaming.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats Can substitute with quick oats but texture will vary.
For the filling
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture until well combined.
- Stir in the oats until fully incorporated.
- Spread half of the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for about 15 minutes until set but not too browned.
Filling and Baking
- In a separate bowl, mix the marshmallow fluff and powdered sugar to create the filling.
- Spread the filling over the baked bottom layer.
- Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the marshmallow filling.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool, then slice into bars and enjoy!