Oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless treat, offering the perfect blend of chewy oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon. These cookies are not only delicious but also provide a comforting, homey feeling with every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to enjoy a nostalgic snack, this recipe will guide you to create perfectly chewy oatmeal raisin cookies that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring these delightful cookies to life in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (240g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup (145g) raisins
- Optional: 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans
How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy and smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Add Oats and Raisins: Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats and raisins by hand using a wooden spoon or spatula. If desired, fold in the chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Be careful not to overbake, as this will result in less chewy cookies.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy your oatmeal raisin cookies warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
About the Main Ingredients
Oats
Old-fashioned rolled oats are the star of this recipe, providing a hearty, chewy texture that is essential for oatmeal cookies. Unlike quick oats, rolled oats maintain their shape and add a pleasant bite to the cookies. They are also rich in fiber and nutrients, making these cookies a somewhat wholesome treat.
Raisins
Raisins add natural sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the oats perfectly. They also bring a slight tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the cookies. For the best results, use fresh, plump raisins. If your raisins are dry, you can soak them in warm water for a few minutes to rehydrate them before adding to the dough.
Butter
Unsalted butter is used in this recipe to control the salt content and add richness and flavor. Creaming the butter with the sugars incorporates air into the dough, contributing to the light, chewy texture of the cookies.
Sugars
A combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar is used to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness. Brown sugar, which contains molasses, adds moisture and a deeper flavor, while granulated sugar helps the cookies spread and crisp up around the edges.
Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon is a classic addition to oatmeal raisin cookies, providing a warm, spicy note that enhances the overall flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the raisins and the heartiness of the oats.
Flour
All-purpose flour forms the base of the cookie dough, providing structure and stability. It’s important to measure the flour accurately to avoid dense or dry cookies. Using a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method ensures you get the right amount.
Eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent and add moisture to the dough. They also help the cookies rise and contribute to the chewy texture. Be sure to use large eggs at room temperature for the best results.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is the leavening agent in this recipe, helping the cookies rise and spread. It also contributes to the browning of the cookies, giving them a nice color and texture.
By following this detailed guide, you can create oatmeal raisin cookies that are perfectly chewy and full of flavor. These cookies are a wonderful treat for any occasion and are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful cookies with family and friends!
