To create these incredibly soft and hearty oatmeal raisin bars, you’ll need a collection of pantry staples that come together to create magic. Let’s break down each ingredient and why it plays such a vital role in the final result:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, softened: Butter is the foundation of these bars, providing richness, flavor, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the recipe. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars.
• ¾ cup Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and also contributes to the bars’ tender texture. It works in tandem with the brown sugar to create a balanced sweetness profile.
• ¾ cup Packed Light Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is the secret ingredient for that signature chewy texture and warm, molasses-like flavor in oatmeal raisin bars. Packing it ensures you’re using the correct amount and adds to the moisture content of the bars. Light brown sugar is preferred for a slightly milder molasses flavor, but you can use dark brown sugar for a richer, more intense taste if desired.
• 2 Large Eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together and adding structure to the bars. They also contribute to the overall richness and moistness. Use large eggs at room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a warm and aromatic note that complements the spices and raisins beautifully. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. Imitation vanilla extract can be used, but the flavor will be less complex.
• 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the bars. Measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can pack the flour and lead to dry bars.
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda: Baking soda is a leavening agent that helps the bars rise and become light and airy. It reacts with the acidity in the brown sugar and buttermilk (if using a variation) to create lift. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal leavening power.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon is the quintessential spice for oatmeal raisin bars, adding warmth and that classic comforting flavor. Freshly ground cinnamon will have the most potent aroma and flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the spice profile. A little goes a long way, so measure accurately. Freshly grated nutmeg is even better if you have it on hand.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential in baking as it balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors. It also helps to control the leavening action of the baking soda. Use table salt or fine sea salt.
• 3 cups Rolled Oats (not instant): Rolled oats are the star of the show! They provide the heartiness, chewiness, and characteristic texture of oatmeal raisin bars. Make sure to use rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats), not instant oats. Instant oats are too finely ground and will result in a mushy texture. Quick-cooking oats can be used in a pinch, but rolled oats are truly the best choice.
• 1 ½ cups Raisins: Raisins add sweetness, chewiness, and bursts of fruity flavor to the bars. Regular raisins are classic, but you can also experiment with golden raisins, dried cranberries, or even chopped dried apricots for different flavor variations. Soaking the raisins in hot water or rum for 10–15 minutes before adding them to the batter can plump them up and make them even more juicy.

Optional Add-ins (for even more deliciousness!):

• ½ cup Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: Nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the oatmeal and raisins perfectly. Walnuts or pecans are classic choices, but you could also use almonds or hazelnuts. Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their flavor.
• ½ cup Chocolate Chips or Chunks: For a decadent twist, add chocolate chips or chunks. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works particularly well with the oatmeal and raisin flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon Ground Ginger: A touch of ground ginger can add a subtle warmth and spice that elevates the flavor profile.
• Orange or Lemon Zest: A teaspoon of citrus zest can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing note.