Make the best homemade oatmeal raisin cookies with this easy recipe. Perfectly chewy and packed with raisins and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are a family favorite. Follow the step-by-step instructions for a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed for Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This dry mixture will form the base of your cookie dough.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the light brown sugar and granulated sugar. Continue beating for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy texture in your cookies.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a rich, aromatic flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Fold in Oats, Raisins, and Walnuts
Gently stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats, raisins, and chopped walnuts (if using). The oats add a hearty texture, while the raisins provide natural sweetness. Walnuts are optional but give a delightful crunch.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, scoop mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Place them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes. Look for light browning around the edges while the centers remain soft. This ensures a chewy texture in the middle with a slight crisp on the edges.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps the cookies set and develop their full flavor.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, serve the oatmeal raisin cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage. These cookies are perfect for a snack, dessert, or even breakfast on the go.
FAQs
- Can I substitute the raisins with another type of dried fruit?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, cherries, or even chopped dried apricots for a different flavor. - How do I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies. - What if I don’t have parchment paper?
If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheets with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. - Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
Quick oats can be used, but the texture will be slightly different. Old-fashioned rolled oats give the cookies a chewier texture.
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