The soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless classic. This recipe brings together the heartwarming flavors of oatmeal, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon to deliver a cookie that is not just incredibly tasty, but also has a comforting feel to it. The cookies are delightfully soft and chewy in the middle with slightly crispy edges, making them perfect for a wonderful treat any time of the day.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples in many households. However, one ingredient that might require a trip to the supermarket is molasses. Molasses adds a robust, sweet and slightly bitter flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies. You can usually find it in the baking or syrup aisle of the supermarket.
Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Butter: Adds richness and a slight savory note to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
Light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and moisture to the cookies.
Granulated sugar: Used for sweetness and to help the cookies spread.
Eggs: Gives structure and stability to the cookies.
Vanilla extract: Adds a depth of flavor.
Molasses: Gives the cookies a rich, sweet and slightly bitter taste.
All-purpose flour: The base for the cookie dough.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note to the cookies.
Salt: Balances the sweetness.
Old-fashioned whole rolled oats: Gives the cookies their distinctive texture and flavor.
Raisins: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture.
Walnuts: Gives a nice crunch and flavor to the cookies.
One reader, Anders Lujan says:
These oatmeal raisin cookies are the best I've ever made! They turned out soft and chewy, just like the recipe promised. The combination of oats, raisins, and walnuts is simply delightful. I highly recommend this recipe to anyone looking for a delicious and comforting treat.
Techniques Required for Making Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
How to cream the butter and sugars: Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and both sugars together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
How to mix the wet ingredients: Add the eggs and mix on high for about 1 minute until combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed. Add the vanilla and molasses and mix on high until combined.
How to prepare the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt together.
How to incorporate the dry ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined.
How to add the oats, raisins, and walnuts: Beat in the oats, raisins, and walnuts, if using, on low speed. The dough will be thick, yet very sticky.
How to chill the dough: Chill the dough for 30 to 60 minutes in the refrigerator (do the full 1 hour to avoid the cookies from spreading too much).
How to roll the cookie dough: Roll the balls of dough (about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie) and place 2-inches apart on the baking sheets.
How to bake the cookies: Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until lightly browned on the sides. The centers will look very soft and under-baked.
How to cool the cookies: Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will continue to “set” on the baking sheet during this time.
How To Make Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
You can never go wrong with these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, which offer a soft and chewy treat, spiced with vanilla, cinnamon, brown sugar, and raisins!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupbutter,unsalted, softened to room temperature
- 1cuplight brown sugar,or dark brown sugar, packed
- ¼cupgranulated sugar
- 2large eggs
- 1tbsppure vanilla extract
- 1tbspmolasses
- 1½cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1½tspcinnamon,ground
- ½tspsalt
- 3cupsold-fashioned whole rolled oats
- 1cupraisins
- ½cupwalnuts,chopped, toasted, optional
Instructions
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Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and both sugars together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until smooth.
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Add the eggs and mix on high for about 1 minute until combined.
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Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
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Add the vanilla and molasses and mix on high until combined.
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Set aside.
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In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt together.
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Add to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined.
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Beat in the oats, raisins, and walnuts, if using, on low speed. The dough will be thick, yet very sticky.
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Chill the dough for 30 to 60 minutes in the refrigerator (do the full 1 hour to avoid the cookies from spreading too much).
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If chilling for longer (for up to 2 days), allow to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before rolling and baking.
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
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Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
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Roll the balls of dough (about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie) and place 2-inches apart on the baking sheets.
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Use a cookie scoop since the dough can be sticky.
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Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until lightly browned on the sides. The centers will look very soft and under-baked.
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Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will continue to “set” on the baking sheet during this time.
Recipe Notes
- Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions: The cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to 1 week. The baked cookies freeze well for up to 3 months. Unbaked cookie dough balls freeze well for up to 3 months. Bake the frozen cookie dough balls for an extra 1 minute, no need to thaw.
- Oats: For these oatmeal raisin cookies, use old-fashioned whole oats. They provide the ultimate hearty, chewy, thick texture we love!
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs preferred. A good rule of thumb is to always use room-temperature eggs when using room-temperature butter.
- Raisins: Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before using (blot very well to dry them). This makes them nice and plump for the cookies.
Nutrition
- Calories: 4642.77kcal
- Fat: 214.00g
- Saturated Fat: 122.91g
- Trans Fat: 7.48g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 56.56g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 16.12g
- Carbohydrates: 635.40g
- Fiber: 35.19g
- Sugar: 298.34g
- Protein: 71.83g
- Cholesterol: 860.05mg
- Sodium: 2648.87mg
- Calcium: 531.11mg
- Potassium: 2885.67mg
- Iron: 26.81mg
- Vitamin A: 1713.29µg
- Vitamin C: 3.51mg
Technique Tip for Achieving Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
To ensure your oatmeal raisin cookies are soft and chewy, it's crucial to not overbake them. Even if they look underdone, take them out when they are lightly browned on the sides. They will continue to set on the baking sheet as they cool. Overbaking can result in hard and dry cookies. Also, using molasses in the recipe adds extra moisture and chewiness to the cookies.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Chill dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes will prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help create uniform cookie shapes and save time during the portioning process.
Bake in batches: Bake multiple batches of cookies simultaneously to maximize oven use and save time.
Store in airtight containers: Once cooled, store the cookies in airtight containers to maintain their freshness and texture for longer.
Substitute Ingredients For Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the cookies while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies, and it also complements the oatmeal and raisin flavors.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cookies, resulting in a soft and chewy texture.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the cookies, while also providing additional fiber.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda in a pinch, although it may slightly alter the texture of the cookies.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar texture and flavor profile to walnuts, adding a delicious nuttiness to the cookies.
Presenting the Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Elevate the cookie: Place the soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies on a rustic wooden board or a slate platter to add a touch of warmth and charm to the presentation.
Garnish with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the cookies with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a delicate and elegant finishing touch.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Arrange a few sprigs of fresh mint or lavender alongside the cookies to infuse a subtle hint of fragrance and visual appeal.
Pair with a gourmet beverage: Serve the cookies alongside a small glass of vanilla-infused milk or a shot of espresso for a sophisticated and complementary pairing.
Use a vintage serving dish: Present the cookies on a vintage ceramic platter or a silver tray to evoke a sense of nostalgia and timeless elegance.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For a luxurious touch, delicately place a few edible gold leaf flakes on the cookies to create a stunning visual contrast.
Create a cookie tower: Stack the cookies in a whimsical tower formation, using a small dollop of whipped cream between each layer for a playful and eye-catching display.
Serve with artisanal ice cream: Accompany the cookies with a scoop of artisanal vanilla bean ice cream in a delicate crystal bowl for a delightful and indulgent dessert experience.
Incorporate edible flowers: Adorn the platter with a few edible rose petals or violets to introduce a pop of color and a touch of floral elegance.
Personalized cookie packaging: Present the cookies in individual vintage-style cookie tins or decorative boxes with personalized labels for a thoughtful and charming touch.
Essential Tools for Making Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Hand mixer: A handheld kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It's a convenient tool for creaming butter and sugar, and for incorporating air into batters and doughs.
- Stand mixer: A countertop appliance with a mixing head that holds a variety of attachments for mixing, kneading, and whipping. It's great for larger batches and heavier doughs.
- Paddle attachment: An attachment for stand mixers, used for creaming butter and sugar, and mixing cookie doughs without incorporating too much air.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping, beating, and incorporating air into ingredients. It's great for blending wet and dry ingredients together.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients. It's available in various materials such as stainless steel, glass, and plastic.
- Silicone spatula: A flexible kitchen tool used for scraping bowls, folding ingredients, and spreading batters. It's heat-resistant and gentle on mixing bowls and pans.
- Cookie scoop: A utensil designed to portion out cookie dough, ensuring uniform-sized cookies for even baking.
- Baking sheets: Flat, rectangular metal sheets used to bake cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
- Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets, preventing cookies from sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Wire rack: A rack used for cooling baked goods, allowing air to circulate around the food for even cooling.
How To Store and Freeze Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Allow the oatmeal raisin cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
Place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer of cookies to keep them from sticking to one another. This will also help maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider storing them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies:
- Place the cooled cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the cookies are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe ziplock bag or an airtight container, separating each layer with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Label the bag or container with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when they were frozen.
Frozen oatmeal raisin cookies can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, you can reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) for a couple of minutes.
How To Reheat Leftover Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
The best way to reheat leftover oatmeal raisin cookies is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crispy around the edges. This method will help restore the cookies' original texture and flavor.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat the cookies, as they can become too soft or rubbery. If the cookies are not warm enough after the first interval, continue microwaving them in 5-second increments until they reach the desired temperature.
For a quicker and more convenient method, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat the cookies for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly crispy. This method is ideal for reheating small batches of cookies.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can wrap the cookies in a damp paper towel before microwaving them. This will help add moisture to the cookies and prevent them from drying out. Microwave the wrapped cookies for 10-15 seconds, or until they are warm and soft.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, you can use a combination of the oven and microwave methods. First, microwave the cookies for 10-15 seconds to warm them up. Then, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to crisp up the edges.
Random Fact About Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a popular treat in the United States, and they are often enjoyed with a glass of milk.
Is Making Oatmeal Raisin Cookies at Home Economical?
This soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, making it budget-friendly. The use of oats and raisins provides nutritional value, and the recipe yields a large batch, making it suitable for a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10.
Are Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This oatmeal raisin cookie recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The high amounts of butter, sugar, and all-purpose flour contribute to a cookie that is high in calories, fat, and refined carbohydrates. The addition of oats and raisins does provide some fiber and nutrients, but the overall nutritional value is overshadowed by the less healthy ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to lower the fat content
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Decrease the amount of sugar used, or replace some of it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Increase the amount of oats to boost the fiber content and add more texture to the cookies
- Add in other healthy ingredients like chia seeds, flax seeds, or chopped nuts for additional nutrients and healthy fats
- Experiment with using dried fruits like cranberries or apricots in place of some of the raisins for variety and added nutritional benefits
Editor's Thoughts on This Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies recipe to be a delightful combination of classic flavors and textures. The use of molasses adds a rich depth of flavor, while the combination of oats, raisins, and walnuts provides a satisfying chewiness and nuttiness. The addition of cinnamon enhances the overall warmth of the cookies. The instructions are clear and concise, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, this recipe promises to yield delicious cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Enhance Your Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe:
This recipe guarantees irresistible soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies that will elevate your baking game. With a perfect balance of butter, brown sugar, and molasses, these cookies offer a delightful chewiness. The addition of walnuts provides a satisfying crunch, while the cinnamon and vanilla extract infuse warm, comforting flavors. The meticulous steps ensure a foolproof outcome, and the rave reviews from our community attest to its delectable nature. Trust this recipe to deliver a batch of heavenly oatmeal raisin cookies that will win over even the toughest cookie critics.
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