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Chewy Homemade Lunchbox Oatmeal Cookie Bars

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These chewy homemade lunchbox oatmeal cookie bars are a perfect grab-and-go snack with a soft, chewy texture and wholesome oat flavor. Easy to make and ideal for kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (180 g) rolled oats
  • 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (150 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Optional mix-ins:
  • 1/2 cup (90 g) mini chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup (40 g) chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
  • 1/3 cup (40 g) dried fruit (raisins or dried cranberries)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, melted unsalted butter (cooled slightly), and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Fold gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in optional mix-ins like mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit if desired.
  6. Spread the batter evenly in the lined pan, pressing gently to compact slightly.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes until edges are golden and center is still soft. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
  8. Cool completely on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes to set the bars.
  9. Lift the baked slab out using the parchment overhang and cut into 12 equal bars. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Do not substitute rolled oats with quick oats to maintain chewy texture. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough bars. Cool bars completely before slicing to avoid crumbling. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based margarine and use a flax egg for vegan option.

Nutrition

Keywords: oatmeal cookie bars, chewy oatmeal bars, lunchbox snacks, easy oatmeal bars, kid-friendly snacks, homemade cookie bars

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