Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
When it comes to comforting and satisfying treats, oatmeal cookies hold a special place in our hearts. They’re chewy, hearty, and loaded with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. This Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe is a delightful mix of old-fashioned rolled oats, warm spices, and sweet add-ins that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds). Let’s dive into the ingredients and the process of making these delicious cookies that are sure to become a family favorite.
Why It Deserves a Spot
This oatmeal cookie recipe deserves a spot in your baking repertoire because it strikes the perfect balance between wholesome ingredients and indulgent flavor. The old-fashioned rolled oats provide a chewy texture that is simply irresistible, while the rich flavor of dark brown sugar adds a touch of caramel sweetness. With the addition of pecans and raisins, these cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Plus, they come together quickly, making them a fantastic choice for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights at home.
What Goes Into Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
To create the Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (do not use quick cooking or instant oats)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened but still cool
- 1 cup (packed) dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup coarsely chopped pecans
- ¾ cup raisins or currants
Setup & Equipment
Before you start baking, gather the following essential equipment:
- Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
- Electric mixer or whisk: To cream the butter and sugar together.
- Baking sheet: To place your cookie dough on for baking.
- Parchment paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: For portioning out the cookie dough.
- Cooling rack: To cool the cookies after baking.
Cooking Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe: The Process
Now, let’s get started with the step-by-step process of making these scrumptious cookies.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed, and set aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer (or a whisk) to cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the texture light and airy.
Step 7: Fold in Add-ins
Gently fold in the chopped pecans and raisins (or currants) using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a bit underbaked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool the Cookies
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins
This Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe is versatile and can be adapted for different seasons:
- Warm Weather: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with iced tea.
- Cool Weather: Incorporate a handful of chocolate chips or chopped apples to embrace the cozy flavors of fall.
- Seasonal Spices: Try adding pumpkin spice or apple pie spice during the autumn months for a seasonal flair.
- Nut Variations: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
What Not to Do
To ensure your oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Do not use quick cooking or instant oats, as they will result in a different texture.
- Avoid overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.
- Do not skip chilling the dough; while it’s not necessary, letting it rest for 30 minutes can enhance the flavor.
- Do not crowd the baking sheet; give each cookie enough space to spread and bake evenly.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your oatmeal cookies fresh and delicious:
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- If you want to keep them longer, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months.
- For best results when thawing, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use quick oats in this recipe?
It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for this oatmeal cookie recipe. Quick oats will alter the texture and may lead to a different outcome.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Can I add chocolate chips to this cookie recipe?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips are a delicious addition. Just fold them in along with the pecans and raisins for a delightful twist.
Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies are often the result of too much butter or not enough flour. Make sure to measure accurately and avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar.
Final Bite
The Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With its hearty oats, rich brown sugar, and delightful mix-ins, each bite is a reminder of home. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or saved for later, these cookies are sure to put a smile on your face. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s create something special that you and your loved ones will cherish.
The joy of baking lies not just in the final product but in the process of creating something delicious from simple ingredients. With every batch, you’re not only making treats to enjoy but also memories that will last a lifetime. Happy baking!
Best Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well mixed.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and raisins (or currants) using a spatula.
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look underbaked.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze baked cookies for up to three months for longer storage.
- Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
