Irresistible Oatmeal Cookies – A Recipe to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Oatmeal cookies are a timeless treat, loved for their chewy texture and rich, comforting flavor. Whether you enjoy them plain or packed with raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts, these cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Follow this step-by-step guide to bake a batch of homemade oatmeal cookies that will impress every time.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups (240g) old-fashioned rolled oats

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup (150g) raisins or chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer for about 3 minutes, or until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Oats and Add-ins

Stir in the rolled oats until evenly distributed. If using raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts, fold them in now.

Step 7: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps control spreading during baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Add 1 cup of raisins for a chewy, naturally sweet twist.
• Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies: Swap the raisins for 1 cup of chocolate chips.
• Nutty Oatmeal Cookies: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Cranberry & White Chocolate Cookies: Combine 1/2 cup dried cranberries with 1/2 cup white chocolate chips for a festive touch.

Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Cookies

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: A kitchen scale ensures precision, especially with dry ingredients.
• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth dough with even texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
• Check for Doneness: Look for golden edges rather than a fully set center—cookies continue baking after being removed from the oven.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep cookies soft, place a slice of bread in the container.

Nutritional Benefits

Oatmeal cookies provide a good source of dietary fiber from oats, which aids digestion and helps maintain fullness. Adding nuts increases protein and healthy fats, while raisins contribute natural sweetness and extra fiber. However, they do contain sugar and butter, so enjoy them in moderation.

Cultural Influence

Variations of oatmeal cookies exist worldwide. In Norway, “havreflarn” are thin, crisp oatmeal cookies often drizzled with chocolate. This recipe’s versatility makes it a favorite in many kitchens, adapting to different flavors and traditions.

Final Thoughts

Homemade oatmeal cookies are easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or treat with coffee or milk, this classic recipe guarantees delicious results.