Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Introduction

Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are packed with wholesome oats, sweet raisins, and warm spices, offering a comforting and delicious treat with the perfect amount of chew. Ideal for a cozy snack or dessert!

Ingredients

For the Cookies: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 1/2 cups raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine the 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 until just combined.
5. Fold in the oats and raisins: Stir in the rolled oats, raisins, and nuts (if using) by hand until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. 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.
7. Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
8. Cool and serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 24 cookies and takes approximately 30 minutes from prep to baking.

Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a chocolatey twist, mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips along with the oats and raisins.
• Spice it Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ginger for extra warmth.
• Use Different Dried Fruits: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a fruity variation.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
   Quick oats can be used, but the texture will be different; rolled oats give the cookies a chewier texture.
2. Can I make these cookies vegan?
   Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
3. What can I use instead of eggs?
   You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) as an egg substitute.
4. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
   Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
5. Can I add nuts to the cookies?
   Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans are a great addition, providing a nice crunch.
6. Why are my cookies flat?
   Flat cookies may result from too much butter or not enough flour. Ensure accurate measurements and try chilling the dough before baking.
7. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be golden brown while the centers remain soft. They will firm up as they cool.
8. Can I use brown sugar only?
   You can use just brown sugar, but the cookies will be denser and have a richer flavor.
9. How long do the cookies stay fresh?
   They can stay fresh for up to a week in an airtight container.
10. Can I use other sweeteners?
    Yes, you can experiment with alternatives like maple syrup or honey, but adjust the dry ingredients accordingly.

Conclusion

Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether paired with a glass of milk or shared with friends, these cookies are sure to please!

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