Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

source	SimplyRecipes
categories	cookies, dessert
yield	48 cookies
prep time	20 mins
total time	45 mins

INGREDIENTS

1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar

½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

2 Lrg eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 ½ cup (190g) all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking soda

1 tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp salt

3 cup (240g) old-fashioned oats

1 ½ cup (240g) raisins

Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°FC) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. This step helps create a soft and fluffy cookie base.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. The eggs add moisture and richness to the cookies, while the vanilla enhances the flavor.

4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.

5. Fold in the oats and raisins: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold in the oats and raisins (and nuts, if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Scoop the dough onto the baking sheets: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

7. Bake the cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft. This ensures a chewy texture.

8. Cool and enjoy!: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your oatmeal raisin cookies warm, with a glass of milk or your favorite tea!

NOTES

Pro Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Use old-fashioned oats: For the best texture, make sure to use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats. They give the cookies a heartier, chewier bite. Plump your raisins: To ensure your raisins are soft and juicy, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough. Drain and pat them dry before mixing in. Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much. Watch the bake time: For soft and chewy cookies, bake them just until the edges are golden, but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool. Variations and Customizations Looking to change things up or add your own twist to these classic oatmeal raisin cookies? Here are some fun ideas: Add chocolate chips: For a bit more indulgence, swap out half of the raisins for chocolate chips or chunks. Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and spice. Go nutty: Mix in a handful of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch and flavor. Dried fruit mix-ins: Try replacing the raisins with dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a different fruity flavor. Make them healthier: Swap some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version.

NUTRITION