Oatmeal Raisin Cookies recipe

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

This isn’t just another Oatmeal Raisin Cookie recipe; it’s the one that converted me, a former oatmeal raisin skeptic, into a devoted fan. For years, I’d politely decline them, associating them with a certain dryness or an uninspired flavor. But then, on a quest to perfect a chewy, truly flavorful version, I started experimenting. I tweaked spice levels, played with different oats, and focused on techniques to maximize chewiness. The first time I pulled this version from the oven, the aroma alone was different – warm, buttery, with a pronounced cinnamon and nutmeg fragrance that mingled beautifully with the sweet scent of raisins. My family, also somewhat indifferent to oatmeal raisin cookies before, were intrigued. The first bite was a revelation: a wonderfully crisp edge giving way to an incredibly moist, chewy interior, studded with plump, juicy raisins and infused with a perfectly balanced spice. There was no dryness, no blandness, just pure, comforting deliciousness. My kids, who usually clamor for chocolate chips, actually started requesting “those amazing oatmeal cookies.” It proved to me that with the right recipe and technique, an Oatmeal Raisin Cookie can be a truly exceptional treat, full of character and irresistible chew.

The Enduring Charm of Classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies hold a special place in the cookie hall of fame. They are the quintessential comfort cookie, evoking feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and homespun goodness. With their delightfully chewy texture derived from rolled oats, the sweet bursts of juicy raisins, and a subtle yet fragrant spice blend, these cookies offer a satisfying and wholesome treat. This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance: a cookie that’s wonderfully moist and chewy on the inside with slightly crisp edges, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to disappear quickly from the cookie jar.

Why This Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe is a Cut Above

While there are countless oatmeal raisin cookie recipes floating around, this particular version has several qualities that make it stand out and will likely make it your go-to:

  1. Ultimate Chewiness and Moisture: This recipe is engineered for maximum chew. Key factors include the right ratio of oats to flour, the use of brown sugar (which contributes moisture and chew), an extra egg yolk, and a careful baking time. These cookies stay wonderfully moist and chewy for days.
  2. Perfectly Plump Raisins: We often incorporate a simple trick (like soaking the raisins) to ensure they are juicy and plump throughout the cookie, rather than dry and hard. This makes a huge difference to the overall eating experience.
  3. Balanced Spice Profile: The warm spices – typically cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg – are perfectly balanced to complement the oats and raisins without overpowering them. They add a comforting warmth and depth of flavor.
  4. Crisp Edges, Soft Center: The holy grail of cookie textures! This recipe yields cookies that have delightfully crisp edges that give way to a soft, tender, and chewy middle.
  5. Rich Buttery Flavor: The use of good quality butter, properly creamed with the sugars, lays a delicious foundation of rich, buttery flavor that underpins all the other elements.
  6. Simple, Reliable Method: While the results are gourmet, the method is straightforward and uses standard cookie-making techniques, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  7. Nostalgic Comfort: These cookies deliver on that classic, comforting oatmeal raisin experience that so many people love, but with an elevated texture and flavor that makes them truly memorable.

This isn’t just about baking a cookie; it’s about crafting a little piece of comfort and joy, and this recipe ensures every bite is as good as you remember, if not better.

Understanding the Key Ingredients for Superior Texture and Flavor

The magic of a truly great Oatmeal Raisin Cookie lies in the thoughtful selection and interaction of its key ingredients. Understanding their roles can help you appreciate why this recipe works so well:

  1. Rolled Oats (Old-Fashioned Oats):
    • Role: This is the star ingredient, providing the signature chewy texture and hearty, slightly nutty flavor. Rolled oats absorb moisture from the dough, contributing to the cookie’s structure and chewiness.
    • Why Not Quick Oats or Steel-Cut? Quick oats are thinner and more processed; they can result in a pastier, less defined texture. Steel-cut oats are too hard and won’t soften properly in the baking time, leading to an unpleasantly gritty cookie. Old-fashioned rolled oats offer the perfect balance.
  2. Brown Sugar:
    • Role: Brown sugar (light or dark) is crucial for moisture and chewiness due to its molasses content. Molasses is hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and holds onto water, which keeps the cookies soft. It also imparts a deeper, more caramel-like flavor than granulated sugar alone.
    • Impact: A higher ratio of brown sugar to granulated sugar generally leads to a chewier, moister cookie.
  3. Butter:
    • Role: Butter provides richness, flavor, and contributes to the cookie’s spread and tenderness. The creaming process (beating butter with sugar) incorporates air, which helps with leavening and texture.
    • Quality Matters: Using good quality unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content and provides a cleaner, richer flavor.
  4. Eggs (and an Extra Yolk):
    • Role: Eggs bind the ingredients, add richness, and contribute to leavening. The extra egg yolk is a secret weapon for chewiness and richness, as yolks contain fat and lecithin, which enhance these qualities.
  5. Flour:
    • Role: All-purpose flour provides the main structure for the cookie. The key is not to use too much, as excess flour can lead to dry, tough cookies.
    • Proper Measurement: Spooning and leveling the flour into the measuring cup is important to avoid over-measuring.
  6. Raisins:
    • Role: Provide bursts of sweetness, a chewy texture contrast, and a classic flavor.
    • Plumping: Soaking raisins in hot water or another liquid (like rum or orange juice for an adult twist) before adding them to the dough makes them plumper, juicier, and less likely to dry out during baking.
  7. Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, etc.):
    • Role: Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are traditional in oatmeal raisin cookies and add a comforting aromatic quality. They enhance the sweetness and complement the oats and raisins beautifully.
    • Freshness: Using freshly ground spices or good quality pre-ground spices makes a noticeable difference in flavor intensity.
  8. Leavening Agents (Baking Soda):
    • Role: Baking soda reacts with acidic components in the dough (like brown sugar) to produce carbon dioxide gas, which helps the cookies rise and spread, contributing to their texture.

By understanding how these ingredients work together, you can appreciate the science and art behind crafting the perfect, chewy, flavorful Oatmeal Raisin Cookie.

Gather Your Wholesome Ingredients

For the best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, start with good quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups (240g) old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant or quick-cooking)
  • 1 1/2 cups (225g) raisins (see note for plumping)

Optional for Plumping Raisins:

  • 1/2 cup hot water (or orange juice, or even dark rum for an adult version)

Equipment Needed:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Cookie scoop (medium size, about 1.5-2 tablespoons)

Ingredient Notes:

  • Butter and Eggs: Ensure your butter is properly softened (it should give slightly when pressed, but not be greasy or melted) and your eggs/yolk are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate better for a smoother dough.
  • Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are essential for the classic chewy texture.
  • Raisins: Dark or golden raisins work well. Consider plumping them for an even better cookie (instructions below).
  • Spices: Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to your preference. A pinch of allspice or cloves can also be added for more complexity.

Step-by-Step to Chewy Cookie Perfection

Follow these detailed instructions to bake a batch of irresistibly chewy and flavorful Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.

Phase 1: Prepare Ingredients (Including Plumping Raisins – Optional)

  1. Plump the Raisins (Optional but Highly Recommended):
    • Place the 1 1/2 cups of raisins in a heatproof bowl.
    • Pour 1/2 cup of hot water (or your chosen liquid like orange juice or rum) over the raisins.
    • Let them soak for 10-15 minutes to plump up.
    • After soaking, drain the raisins thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Set aside. This step ensures juicy raisins in your cookies.
  2. Adjust Oven Rack and Preheat Oven: Position an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Phase 2: Make the Cookie Dough

  1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (stand mixer with paddle attachment or hand mixer), beat the 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add the 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
  3. Add Eggs, Yolk, and Vanilla: Add the 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk, one at a time (add yolk with one of the whole eggs), beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Beat in the 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  5. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredient mixture in two additions. Mix on low speed until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as most of the flour streaks have disappeared.
  6. Fold in Oats and Raisins: Add the 3 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats and the prepared (drained and patted dry) plumped raisins to the dough. Using a sturdy rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold them into the dough until they are evenly distributed. The dough will be thick.
  7. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended for Thicker Cookies): For thicker cookies that spread less, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour (or up to 24 hours). Chilling also allows the flavors to meld. If you’re short on time, you can bake them without chilling, but they may spread more.

Phase 3: Bake the Cookies

  1. Scoop Dough: If you chilled the dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes if it’s too firm to scoop easily. Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5-2 tablespoons), scoop portions of dough and drop them about 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets.
  2. Bake: Bake for 10-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and set, but the centers still look slightly soft and a little underdone. Baking time will vary depending on your oven and the size of your cookies.
    • For chewier cookies, err on the side of slightly underbaking.
    • For crispier cookies, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  3. Cool Cookies:
    • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. They will be very soft when they first come out of the oven and will continue to cook slightly and firm up on the hot pan.
    • After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are ready to be enjoyed with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

These cookies are a true classic, perfected for maximum chewiness and flavor.

Nutritional Profile: A Wholesome Treat

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, while still a treat, offer some nutritional benefits compared to other types of cookies, primarily due to the inclusion of oats and raisins.

  • Servings: This recipe typically yields approximately 30-36 cookies, depending on the size of your cookie scoop (assuming a 1.5-2 tablespoon scoop).
  • Calories per serving (approximate for 1 cookie): A single cookie can range from 120 to 180 calories.

Key Nutritional Contributions:

  • Oats (Whole Grains):
    • Dietary Fiber: Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which can help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar, and promote digestive health.
    • Vitamins and Minerals: Oats provide manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
    • Sustained Energy: The complex carbohydrates in oats provide a more sustained energy release compared to refined flour alone.
  • Raisins:
    • Natural Sugars: Provide sweetness and quick energy.
    • Fiber: Contribute additional dietary fiber.
    • Iron and Potassium: Raisins contain small amounts of these important minerals.
    • Antioxidants: Raisins have antioxidant properties.
  • Fats: Primarily from butter.
  • Sugars: From granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the natural sugars in raisins.
  • Protein: A modest amount from eggs, oats, and flour.

Considerations:

  • While they offer some wholesome ingredients, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are still cookies and contain sugar and fat. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
  • The specific nutritional values can vary based on the exact ingredients used (e.g., butterfat content, type of raisins) and the precise size of the cookies.

Compared to cookies made solely with refined flour and sugar, the addition of oats makes Oatmeal Raisin Cookies a more satisfying and slightly more nutritious option when you’re craving a sweet treat.

Time Commitment: Crafting Your Chewy Delights

Baking these classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies is a relatively straightforward process, with the option of chilling the dough for enhanced results.

  • Active Preparation Time:
    • Plumping raisins (optional): 2-3 minutes active (plus 10-15 min soaking)
    • Creaming butter/sugars, adding eggs/vanilla: 7-10 minutes
    • Whisking dry ingredients: 2-3 minutes
    • Combining wet and dry, folding in oats/raisins: 5-7 minutes
    • Scooping dough (per batch): 3-5 minutes
    • Total Active Time (hands-on work): Approximately 17-25 minutes (excluding optional raisin soaking time if done concurrently)
  • Inactive Chilling Time (Optional but Recommended):
    • Minimum 30 minutes to 1 hour (can be up to 24 hours).
  • Baking Time (per batch):
    • 10-14 minutes
  • Cooling Time:
    • On baking sheet: 5 minutes
    • On wire rack: At least 15-20 minutes to cool substantially, longer to cool completely.

Overall Estimated Time (from absolute start to first batch cooled enough to eat):

  • If baking without chilling dough: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • If chilling for the minimum 30 minutes: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.

Efficient Workflow:

  1. Start by plumping raisins (if doing so) and preheating your oven.
  2. While raisins soak/oven preheats, prepare the cookie dough.
  3. If chilling, place the dough in the fridge.
  4. When ready (or if not chilling), scoop and bake.

This recipe offers a wonderful return on a relatively modest time investment, yielding a batch of comforting and delicious cookies.

How to Serve: Enjoying Your Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a timeless classic that can be enjoyed in many simple yet satisfying ways. Here are some ideas for serving these chewy delights:

  • The Classic Way: With a Glass of Milk:
    • There’s nothing more iconic than a warm Oatmeal Raisin Cookie paired with a tall glass of cold milk. Perfect for dunking!
  • Alongside a Hot Beverage:
    • Enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, a comforting mug of tea (black, herbal, or chai), or a rich hot chocolate. The warm spices in the cookie pair beautifully with warm drinks.
  • As an After-School Snack:
    • A wholesome and satisfying treat for kids (and adults!) after a long day.
  • Packed in Lunchboxes:
    • They hold up well and make a lovely surprise in a lunchbox.
  • On a Cookie Platter:
    • A welcome addition to any cookie platter for parties, gatherings, or holiday exchanges. Their rustic appearance is very appealing.
  • Slightly Warmed:
    • If enjoying a cookie that has cooled completely, you can microwave it for just 5-10 seconds to slightly soften it and bring back that “fresh from the oven” warmth (be careful not to overheat).
  • As a Base for an Ice Cream Sandwich:
    • Take two completely cooled cookies and sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between them. Vanilla bean, butter pecan, or even cinnamon ice cream would be delicious.
  • Crumbled Over Yogurt or Oatmeal:
    • For a decadent breakfast treat, crumble a cookie over plain yogurt or a bowl of oatmeal for added texture and sweetness.
  • As a Simple Dessert:
    • Serve one or two cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream and perhaps a drizzle of caramel sauce for an easy yet satisfying dessert.
  • Gift Giving:
    • Package them in a decorative tin or cellophane bag tied with a ribbon. Homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies make a thoughtful and much-appreciated gift.

No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies offer a taste of comfort and nostalgia that is universally loved.

Pro Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Every Time (5 Tips)

To ensure your Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are consistently chewy, flavorful, and utterly delicious, keep these five pro tips in mind:

  1. Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (Not Instant/Quick): This is crucial for achieving the classic chewy texture. Old-fashioned rolled oats absorb moisture properly and provide the characteristic hearty bite. Instant or quick oats are thinner and more processed, and can lead to a pastier, less textured cookie.
  2. Don’t Overmix After Adding Flour: Once you begin incorporating the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, spices, salt) into the wet mixture, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough, dense cookies instead of the desired soft and chewy texture. Stop mixing as soon as the flour streaks mostly disappear; the final incorporation can happen when you fold in the oats and raisins.
  3. Plump Your Raisins for Maximum Juiciness: Soaking raisins in hot water (or another liquid like orange juice or rum for an adult twist) for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the dough makes a significant difference. This rehydrates them, making them plump and juicy within the cookie, rather than dry and hard. Be sure to drain them well and pat them dry before adding to the dough.
  4. Slightly Underbake for Optimal Chewiness: For that coveted soft and chewy center, pull the cookies from the oven when the edges are set and lightly golden brown, but the centers still look a tad soft or slightly underdone. Cookies continue to cook on the hot baking sheet for a few minutes after being removed from the oven. Overbaking will lead to drier, crispier cookies.
  5. Measure Flour Correctly (Spoon and Level Method): Using too much flour is a common reason for dry or tough cookies. To measure flour accurately, lightly spoon the flour into your measuring cup until it’s mounded, then use the straight edge of a knife or spatula to level off the excess. Avoid scooping the measuring cup directly into the flour bag, as this compacts the flour and results in using more than the recipe calls for.

By following these tips, you’ll consistently bake Oatmeal Raisin Cookies that are the perfect balance of chewy, moist, and flavorful – truly a cut above the rest!

Oatmeal Raisin Cookie FAQ (5 Q/A)

Here are answers to some common questions about baking these classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:

Q1: Can I use quick-cooking oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
A: While you can technically use quick-cooking oats, it’s not recommended for the best texture. Quick oats are thinner and more processed, and they tend to absorb liquid differently, which can result in cookies that are less chewy, more cakey, or even pasty. Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the signature hearty, chewy texture that is characteristic of a great oatmeal raisin cookie.

Q2: Do I really need to chill the cookie dough?
A: Chilling the dough for this recipe is listed as optional but highly recommended, especially if you prefer thicker cookies that spread less. Chilling allows the fats (butter) to solidify, which slows down spreading in the oven. It also allows the oats to hydrate more fully and the flavors to meld, often resulting in a more flavorful and chewier cookie. If you’re in a hurry, you can bake them without chilling, but expect them to be a bit thinner and spread more.

Q3: My cookies turned out dry. What could have gone wrong?
A: Dry oatmeal raisin cookies can be a result of a few things:
Too much flour: This is a common culprit. Ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly using the “spoon and level” method.
Overbaking: Pulling the cookies from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft is key for chewiness.
Not enough fat or moisture: Ensure you’re using the correct amount of butter and that it’s properly softened. The extra egg yolk in this recipe helps with moisture.
Using quick oats instead of rolled oats: As mentioned, this can affect texture.

Q4: Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Oatmeal raisin cookies are very adaptable.
Nuts: About 3/4 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans would be a delicious addition. Add them along with the oats and raisins.
Chocolate Chips: For an oatmeal chocolate chip raisin cookie, you could substitute some or all of the raisins with chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or even white chocolate would work well). Use an equivalent amount (e.g., 1 1/2 cups total of chips/raisins).

Q5: How do I make sure my raisins are evenly distributed and not all sunk to the bottom?
A:
Thick Dough: This recipe produces a fairly thick dough, which naturally helps suspend the raisins.
Tossing Raisins in Flour (Optional): Some bakers like to toss their raisins (and other add-ins) with a tablespoon or two of flour from the recipe before adding them to the dough. This can help prevent them from sinking, though with a thick oatmeal cookie dough, it’s often not strictly necessary.
Even Folding: Ensure you fold the raisins in gently but thoroughly so they are well distributed throughout the dough before scooping.

Storing Your Chewy Treasures: Keeping Them Fresh

Proper storage is key to maintaining the wonderful chewy texture and fresh flavor of your homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.

At Room Temperature:

  1. Cool Completely: Before storing, make sure the cookies are completely cooled on a wire rack. Storing them while still warm will create condensation in the container, which can make them soggy and affect their texture.
  2. Airtight Container: Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container. This is the most important step to prevent them from drying out and becoming stale.
  3. Layering (Optional): If you’re stacking multiple layers of cookies, you can place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between the layers. This helps prevent them from sticking together, especially if they are very moist.
  4. The Bread Trick (Optional for Extra Softness): To help keep the cookies extra soft and chewy, you can add a slice of plain sandwich bread to the airtight container. The cookies will absorb moisture from the bread. Replace the bread slice if it becomes dry.
  5. Duration: Stored properly at room temperature, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies should remain fresh and delicious for 3-5 days. They might become slightly firmer over time but will still be enjoyable.

Freezing Options for Longer Storage:

  1. Freezing Baked Cookies:
    • Cool the cookies completely.
    • Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and “flash freeze” them until solid (this takes about 1-2 hours). This step prevents them from sticking together when stored in a bag or container.
    • Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
    • Label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
    • Thawing: Thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them briefly in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes or microwave for about 10 seconds to restore some warmth and softness.
  2. Freezing Unbaked Cookie Dough Balls:
    • Scoop the cookie dough into balls as if you were about to bake them.
    • Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
    • Flash freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
    • Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer bag.
    • Label with the date and baking instructions. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
    • Baking from Frozen: You can bake the cookies directly from frozen. Place them on a prepared baking sheet and add 1-3 minutes to the original baking time. No need to thaw. This is a fantastic way to have “freshly baked” Oatmeal Raisin Cookies on demand!

By following these storage tips, you can extend the enjoyment of your delicious homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.

Conclusion: The Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Awaits

This Oatmeal Raisin Cookie recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a pathway to creating a truly exceptional version of a timeless classic. By focusing on ingredients and techniques that promote maximum chewiness, moisture, and a harmonious balance of spice and sweetness, these cookies transcend the ordinary. The hearty texture of rolled oats, the sweet bursts from plump raisins, and the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg combine to create a cookie that is both deeply satisfying and wonderfully nostalgic. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a former skeptic, this recipe offers a chance to experience Oatmeal Raisin Cookies at their absolute best – perfectly textured, richly flavored, and irresistibly delicious. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the simple joy of baking, and prepare to fall in love with what might just become your new favorite cookie.

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Oatmeal Raisin Cookies recipe


  • Author: Caroline

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

    • 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar

    • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

    • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

    • 2 large eggs, at room temperature

    • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature

    • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

    • 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

    • 1 teaspoon baking soda

    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

    • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but recommended)

    • 1/2 teaspoon salt

    • 3 cups (240g) old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant or quick-cooking)

    • 1 1/2 cups (225g) raisins (see note for plumping)

Optional for Plumping Raisins:

    • 1/2 cup hot water (or orange juice, or even dark rum for an adult version)


Instructions

    1. Plump the Raisins (Optional but Highly Recommended):
        • Place the 1 1/2 cups of raisins in a heatproof bowl.

        • Pour 1/2 cup of hot water (or your chosen liquid like orange juice or rum) over the raisins.

        • Let them soak for 10-15 minutes to plump up.

        • After soaking, drain the raisins thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Set aside. This step ensures juicy raisins in your cookies.

    1. Adjust Oven Rack and Preheat Oven: Position an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Phase 2: Make the Cookie Dough

    1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer (stand mixer with paddle attachment or hand mixer), beat the 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 1-2 minutes.

    1. Add the 1 cup of packed light brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.

    1. Add Eggs, Yolk, and Vanilla: Add the 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk, one at a time (add yolk with one of the whole eggs), beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. Beat in the 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.

    1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.

    1. Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredient mixture in two additions. Mix on low speed until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as most of the flour streaks have disappeared.

    1. Fold in Oats and Raisins: Add the 3 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats and the prepared (drained and patted dry) plumped raisins to the dough. Using a sturdy rubber spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold them into the dough until they are evenly distributed. The dough will be thick.

    1. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended for Thicker Cookies): For thicker cookies that spread less, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour (or up to 24 hours). Chilling also allows the flavors to meld. If you’re short on time, you can bake them without chilling, but they may spread more.

Phase 3: Bake the Cookies

    1. Scoop Dough: If you chilled the dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes if it’s too firm to scoop easily. Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5-2 tablespoons), scoop portions of dough and drop them about 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets.

    1. Bake: Bake for 10-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and set, but the centers still look slightly soft and a little underdone. Baking time will vary depending on your oven and the size of your cookies.
        • For chewier cookies, err on the side of slightly underbaking.

        • For crispier cookies, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes.

    1. Cool Cookies:
        • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. They will be very soft when they first come out of the oven and will continue to cook slightly and firm up on the hot pan.

        • After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

    1. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are ready to be enjoyed with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 120 to 180