Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of oatmeal raisin cookies. These classic cookies are the perfect blend of chewy oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon. They make for an ideal snack or dessert, bringing nostalgia and joy with every bite. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or as an afternoon treat, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s easy to follow and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 120 calories, 5g fat, 17g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 1g fiber. This is based on a standard cookie size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
- Fold in the raisins until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute raisins with chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a different flavor. Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour adds a nuttier taste and extra fiber. If you want a vegan option, replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce.
Serving and Pairings
These oatmeal raisin cookies are delightful on their own or served with a glass of cold milk. They also pair well with coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon snacks or dessert after a meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes until soft.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold butter instead of softened can result in dense cookies.
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.
- Baking at the wrong temperature may cause cookies to burn.
- Skipping the cooling time can make cookies crumble.
- Using stale oats will affect the flavor.
- Not flattening the cookies before baking can result in uneven shapes.
Helpful Tips
- For chewier cookies, add an extra egg yolk.
- Try adding chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for better flavor.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.
- Ensure your oven is preheated for even baking.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, quick oats can be used, but they will alter the texture slightly, making cookies less chewy.
How do I get my cookies to be chewier?
Add an extra egg yolk and avoid overbaking them. This keeps them soft and chewy.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough in balls. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What can I use instead of raisins?
You can substitute raisins with chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even nuts for a different flavor profile.
How long will the cookies stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to a week at room temperature or longer if frozen.
Conclusion
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless treat that combines wholesome oats and sweet raisins for a delicious snack. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or as a delightful addition to your lunchbox, these cookies are sure to bring comfort and joy. Try this recipe today and savor the delightful flavors!
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
- Fold in the raisins until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
