In the pantheon of classic cookies, the oatmeal raisin variety holds a place of honor. It’s the perfect balance of chewy and sweet, with a hint of spice and a hearty texture that feels somewhat wholesome. This oatmeal raisin cookie recipe promises cookies that are soft in the middle, slightly crispy at the edges, and chock-full of plump raisins and hearty oats. So, preheat your oven and get ready to fill your kitchen with the homey, inviting scent of baking cookies that hark back to simpler times.
The Comforting Appeal of Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal raisin cookies have been a beloved staple in the cookie jar for generations. There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a cookie that’s packed with the goodness of oats and the natural sweetness of raisins. This recipe doesn’t stray far from tradition but adds a few tips and tricks to ensure your cookies come out perfect every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup raisins
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
Prepping for Perfection:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy and well-blended.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
The Oat and Raisin Mix:
- Integrate Dry Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in Oats and Raisins: Stir in the rolled oats and raisins, and if you’re using nuts, fold them in as well.
Baking the Cookies:
- Chill the Dough: For the best results, cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies to not spread too much and become too thin while baking.
- Preheat and Prep Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. The centers will appear soft but will set as they cool.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion
Oatmeal raisin cookies are more than just a delicious snack; they’re a warm reminder of past kitchens and the timeless beauty of simple baking. This recipe is a ticket back to those cherished moments, with the added bonus of achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance. Whether you’re a fan of chewy cookies or you just appreciate the classic combination of oats and raisins, these cookies are bound to satisfy. So, go ahead, pour yourself a glass of milk or a cup of tea, and enjoy the fruits of your baking labors—one delicious oatmeal raisin cookie at a time.