Oatmeal Cookies are a classic treat, loved for their chewy texture, nutty flavor, and endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer them with raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Here’s a delicious and simple oatmeal cookie recipe:
Classic Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup raisins or currants (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the Oats:
- Add the rolled oats and stir them into the dough using a spoon or spatula. The dough should be thick and sticky.
- Add Mix-ins (Optional):
- If desired, fold in your choice of raisins, chocolate chips, and/or nuts. You can also add a combination of these!
- Scoop the Dough:
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. The centers will look slightly undercooked, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Cool the Cookies:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips & Variations:
- For Chewier Cookies: Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar. Brown sugar helps the cookies stay softer and chewier.
- Add Coconut: For a tropical twist, add 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut to the dough.
- Use Other Mix-ins: Feel free to substitute the raisins for dried cranberries, or add white chocolate chips for a creamy contrast.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you’re making these cookies gluten-free.
- For Crispier Cookies: Flatten the dough balls more before baking, and bake for a few minutes longer to get a crispier texture.
Storage:
- Store your oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your homemade oatmeal cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or simply on their own as a satisfying snack! 🍪
