Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

 

Ingredients You Will Need

To make these oatmeal cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of rolled oats

• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened)

• 1/2 cup of brown sugar

• 1/4 cup of white sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup of raisins (optional)

• 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (optional)

• 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)

Step by Step Method

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.

2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix everything together using a spoon or whisk to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the egg and vanilla: Once the butter and sugars are well combined, add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until the egg is fully incorporated.

5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is combined. The dough should be thick but not too dry.

6. Add any mix-ins: If you want to add raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts, fold them into the dough now. This is the fun part, where you can customize the cookies to your liking!

7. Scoop the dough: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread a little as they bake.

8. Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

9. Cool the cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Why This Recipe Is Special

Oatmeal cookies are special because they combine the goodness of oats with a sweet, comforting flavor that everyone loves. Oats are an excellent source of fiber, which helps keep you full and satisfied longer, making oatmeal cookies a great option for a healthy snack. They also provide a number of essential vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.

In addition to being nutritious, oatmeal cookies are also incredibly versatile. You can add a variety of mix-ins, like raisins, chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, to create different flavors and textures. The cinnamon gives them a warm, cozy flavor that is perfect for fall, but they can be enjoyed all year round. These cookies are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a simple, wholesome dessert that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Another reason oatmeal cookies are special is that they are easy to make and require only a few basic ingredients. You don’t need any fancy kitchen equipment or complicated techniques to bake these cookies. They are beginner-friendly, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking to try baking for the first time. Plus, with just one bowl for mixing, they’re easy to clean up afterward. Oatmeal cookies are a great way to indulge in something sweet while also getting some nutritional benefits from oats.

Extra Tips for Better Taste

1. Use old-fashioned oats: For the best texture, use old-fashioned rolled oats. They provide a chewy texture and absorb moisture better than instant oats, which can become mushy.

2. Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better and results in a thicker, chewier texture.

3. Add a pinch of salt: A small pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking can enhance the flavor and balance the sweetness.

4. Experiment with spices: Try adding a little nutmeg or ginger to the dough for a unique twist on the classic flavor. These spices add warmth and depth to the cookies.

5. Make them gluten-free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure the oats are certified gluten-free as well.

6. Customize with mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with different add-ins, such as dried cranberries, chopped dark chocolate, or shredded coconut. You can mix and match to create your perfect oatmeal cookie.

Final Thoughts

Oatmeal cookies are a simple, delicious, and customizable treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, a work snack, or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet, they are sure to satisfy your cravings. The best part about oatmeal cookies is their versatility—you can make them as healthy or indulgent as you like by adjusting the ingredients. You can swap out sugar for a healthier sweetener, add more oats for fiber, or add in your favorite mix-ins for extra flavor.

This recipe is great for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, as it’s easy to follow and delivers delicious results every time. You can enjoy them fresh from the oven, or store them in an airtight container for a few days, ensuring that you always have a tasty snack on hand. No matter the occasion, oatmeal cookies are always a hit.

Nutrition Details

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information for one oatmeal cookie (based on this recipe with chocolate chips and raisins):

*Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.