Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 cups rolled oats

1 cup raisins

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preparing the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This will ensure that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Fold in the rolled oats, raisins, and chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure the oats and raisins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Chilling the Dough (Optional)

If you have time, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to solidify the butter, which can result in thicker cookies that hold their shape better during baking.

Scooping and Baking the Cookies

Once the dough is chilled (or if you choose to skip this step), use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.

For a uniform look, you can gently flatten the tops of the cookie dough balls with the back of a spoon or your fingers. This will help them bake evenly.

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. The cookies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so be careful not to overbake.

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack.

After 5 minutes, use a spatula to transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them maintain their chewy texture.

Storing the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months.

To enjoy frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.

Variations and Tips

For a different flavor profile, try adding 1/2 cup of shredded coconut or chocolate chips to the dough.

If you prefer a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add a nutty flavor and increase the fiber content.

Experiment with different types of dried fruits,

Conclusion:

In summary, these oatmeal raisin cookies are a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a deliciously wholesome treat. With their perfect balance of chewy oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy your sweet tooth while still feeling like a guilt-free snack. Not only are they easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly awaiting a taste. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a comforting afternoon snack. You can also elevate your cookie experience by adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an extra crunch, or even swapping out the raisins for chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a fun twist. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a perfect base for your own creative variations. We encourage you to try this oatmeal raisin cookie recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a delightful treat throughout the week, we would love to hear how they turned out for you. Dont forget to share your baking adventures on social media, and tag us so we can see your delicious creations! Happy baking! Print