Frosted Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Bar Base

01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
05 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
06 - 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
07 - 2 large eggs, at room temperature
08 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
09 - 2 cups quick-cooking oats
10 - 1 cup raisins

→ Maple-Cinnamon Frosting

11 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
12 - 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
13 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup
14 - 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream, at room temperature
15 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
16 - 1/4 teaspoon maple extract (optional for extra maple flavor)

# Instructions:

01 - Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your 9×9-inch baking pan ready by giving it a good coat of baking spray and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This ensures all those warm spices are evenly distributed.
03 - Beat your room temperature butter and brown sugar together until it's light and fluffy - this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Don't forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed!
04 - Add your eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla. Gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined, then gently fold in those oats and raisins.
05 - Spread your dough evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 18-20 minutes, until the edges turn a lovely golden color. Let them cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before moving to a wire rack.
06 - While the bars cool, beat your butter until smooth, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Add maple syrup, heavy cream, cinnamon, and maple extract if using. Beat until you've got a creamy, spreadable frosting.
07 - Once the bars are completely cool, spread that maple-cinnamon frosting over the top in an even layer. Slice into squares and enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - These cozy cookie bars combine the classic comfort of oatmeal raisin cookies with an indulgent maple-cinnamon frosting for an elevated treat.
02 - Try soaking your raisins in warm water for 5-10 minutes before adding them to the dough for extra plump, juicy raisins!