As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of browned butter filled the air, instantly transporting me to the coziest corners of my childhood. That delightful scent sets the stage for my latest creation: Chewy Brown Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars with Salted Nutella Swirl. These bars combine the warm, nutty flavor of brown butter with a creamy, chocolate-hazelnut twist that’s simply irresistible. Best of all, this recipe is not only a quick-bake wonder but also a crowd-pleaser that proves homemade treats can be both indulgent and straightforward. With just a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of these deliciously chewy bars ready to share—or to savor all by yourself. Curious about how to whip up this delightful dessert? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Oatmeal Cookie Bars Special?
Irresistible Flavor: The rich, nutty notes of brown butter paired with the sweet, creamy Nutella make every bite a dessert lover’s dream.
Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time—perfect for busy days or surprise guests!
Crowd Pleaser: These bars are sure to impress family and friends alike, making them a win for any gathering or casual snack.
Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? Swap Nutella for peanut butter or include nuts and dried fruits for an extra twist.
Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of soft chewiness and gooeyness that would make any cookie lover swoon!
Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee in the afternoon or packing them up for a lunchbox treat, these oatmeal cookie bars will not disappoint. If you’re looking for more delicious treats, check out these Nut Baked Oatmeal or Cinnamon Toasted Oatmeal recipes!
Oatmeal Cookie Bars Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars
• Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s cut into chunks for even melting.
• Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture, enhancing the bars’ chewy texture; can substitute with coconut sugar for a different flavor.
• Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring the bars are moist; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; no substitutions necessary, but adding almond extract can elevate it.
• Old-Fashioned Oats – Provides delectable texture and chewiness; avoid instant oats as they lose their structure.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the bars; gluten-free 1:1 flour works as a substitute.
• Baking Powder – Helps the bars rise, though you can omit it for denser bars.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor; pumpkin pie spice can be a delightful substitute.
For the Nutella Swirl
• Nutella (or other chocolate-hazelnut spread) – Offers rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture; melted chocolate is a viable alternative.
For Topping
• Flaky Sea Salt – Sprinkled on top enhances flavors, adding an optional crunch; a finishing touch that heightens your oatmeal cookie bars experience.
Get ready to indulge in these tasty oatmeal cookie bars that are not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Brown Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars with Salted Nutella Swirl
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt salted butter over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Continue cooking until the butter turns a golden brown, emitting a nutty aroma, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, carefully transfer the butter to a bowl and let it cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking. While the oven heats, grab a 9×9-inch baking pan, spray it with non-stick cooking spray, and line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal of the chewy oatmeal cookie bars after baking.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter with brown sugar, whisking until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Next, add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the pure vanilla extract, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors in your cookie bars.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Fold in the old-fashioned oats to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon, then gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tougher bars, so handle the dough carefully.
Step 5: Assemble for Baking
Using a rubber spatula, spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing out the top for an even bake. To make the Nutella swirly topping, microwave it for about 15 seconds until pourable, then drizzle it over the cookie dough. Use a knife to gently swirl the Nutella into the dough for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached for that perfect chewiness.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
After baking, allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift them out and place on a wire rack to cool completely. Before cutting into squares, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile of your chewy brown butter oatmeal cookie bars.
Expert Tips for Oatmeal Cookie Bars
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Watch the Butter: Be attentive while browning the butter; it can quickly turn from perfect to burnt, impacting the flavor of your oatmeal cookie bars.
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Nutella Temperature: Allow the Nutella to cool slightly after microwaving to prevent it from sinking into the dough; this ensures a beautiful swirl.
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Gentle Mixing: Use a rubber spatula to mix ingredients gently; overmixing will lead to tougher oatmeal cookie bars rather than the desired chewy texture.
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Check for Doneness: When baking, start checking your bars a few minutes before the recommended time; every oven is different, and you want them chewy, not dry.
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Flavorful Variations: Don’t hesitate to substitute Nutella with other spreads like peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist that elevates your oatmeal cookie bars.
What to Serve with Chewy Brown Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars with Salted Nutella Swirl?
Indulge in a delightful spread that perfectly complements the rich, nutty flavors of these cookie bars, turning any occasion into a scrumptious feast.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds coolness and contrasts beautifully with the warm bars. It’s pure bliss!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the cookie bars with a touch of tartness.
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Espresso or Coffee: Sip on a strong cup of espresso or coffee; the bitter notes enhance the rich flavors of the Nutella in your dessert.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A bowl of nutty trail mix beside the bars introduces crunchy textures, making the dessert experience more thrilling.
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Chocolate Milkshake: For a decadent pairing, a chocolate milkshake brings an irresistibly gooey vibe, ideal for an afternoon treat or dessert.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce on top transforms the bars into an over-the-top dessert, embellishing every chewy bite with sweetness.
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Milk: Don’t underestimate the classic glass of milk! It’s the perfect blank canvas that allows the flavors of the cookie bars to shine.
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Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with citrus notes refreshes your palate between bites, making the sweet indulgence a little lighter.
Elevate your dessert table by pairing these oatmeal cookie bars with delightful accompaniments that bring out the best in each other!
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Brown Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars with Salted Nutella Swirl are perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a homemade treat without the hassle! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together and keeping it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Nutella can also be portioned out and stored separately. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the dough into the pan, swirl in the Nutella, and pop it in the oven. Not only will the bars be just as delicious, but this time-saving strategy allows you to whip up a delightful dessert with minimal effort when the moment strikes!
Oatmeal Cookie Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make these delicious oatmeal cookie bars your own with a few fun twists!
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Nut Butter Swap: Replace Nutella with peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chewiness.
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Add Nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a heartier texture. They will elevate the flavor profile wonderfully.
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Dried Fruits: Incorporate raisins or dried cranberries to add a burst of fruity sweetness, making each bite even more delightful.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free 1:1 flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-friendly treat, maintaining all the yummy flavors.
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Spice It Up: Replace ground cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a warm, autumnal twist that feels cozy all year round.
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Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips or chunks to the dough for a richer chocolate experience. Because who could resist more chocolate?
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over the top for an irresistible, gooey finish. It’s a flavor combination that won’t be forgotten!
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Coconut Flakes: Stir in sweetened or unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical twist that adds both texture and a delightful flavor.
These oatmeal cookie bars are so versatile, and you can always adjust them to fit any occasion or dietary need! If you’re looking for more deliciously wholesome recipes, why not try the Nut Baked Oatmeal or take a peek at my tasty Blueberry Baked Oatmeal?
How to Store and Freeze Oatmeal Cookie Bars
Room Temperature: Keep the oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will keep them soft—just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Freeze the cookie bars for up to 2 months. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. They’ll be just as delicious when thawed!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds to warm it slightly, reviving that chewy, gooey goodness with every bite.
Brown Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars with Salted Nutella Swirl Recipe FAQs
What type of oats should I use for these cookie bars?
Absolutely! Old-fashioned oats are crucial for the chewy texture in these cookie bars. Instant oats, unfortunately, lose their structure and can make the bars too soft. Stick with the old-fashioned kind for the best results!
How do I store the oatmeal cookie bars for maximum freshness?
I recommend placing the oatmeal cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to store them longer, move them to the fridge for up to 4 days, just remember to let them sit out for a few minutes before enjoying them again.
Can I freeze leftover cookie bars, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your oatmeal cookie bars, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring they’re well-covered to avoid freezer burn. Place them in a resealable freezer bag and they’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
What should I do if my bars turn out too dry?
Very! If your oatmeal cookie bars are turning out dry, it could be that they were overbaked. When testing for doneness, be sure to pull them out when a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs still attached. If they’ve already cooled and are dry, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled chocolate to add moisture back!
Are there any dietary restrictions to consider with this recipe?
Absolutely! To accommodate dietary needs, you can swap the large eggs for flax eggs to make the recipe vegan, and use gluten-free 1:1 flour in place of all-purpose flour. Also, if you’re sensitive to hazelnuts, Nutella can be replaced with sunflower seed butter or other nut-free spreads. Always check your ingredients for allergens!
Irresistibly Chewy Oatmeal Cookie Bars with Nutella Swirl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, melt salted butter over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Transfer to a bowl and let cool.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan with non-stick spray and parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled brown butter with brown sugar, whisking until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Fold in old-fashioned oats and sifted dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cinnamon) into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Microwave Nutella for 15 seconds, drizzle it over the dough, and swirl with a knife.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Lift out using parchment overhang, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and cool completely before cutting into squares.
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