Lazy afternoons call for something sweet, and what better way to answer than with these soft and chewy oatmeal cookies? Packed with wholesome oats and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are your ticket to comfort town. Perfect for dunking in milk or enjoying as is, they’re sure to become a household favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of butter and brown sugar creates a rich, caramel-like flavor that’s irresistible.
- Rolled oats add texture and chewiness, making each bite satisfying.
- A touch of cinnamon enhances the warmth and depth of flavor, elevating the cookies beyond the ordinary.
- Chilling the dough before baking ensures the cookies don’t spread too thin, keeping them soft and chewy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons 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
Equipment Needed
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Wire cooling rack
Instructions
Cream Together Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes on medium speed. The fluffiness is key for achieving that perfect cookie texture.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor, so don’t skip it!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as you no longer see flour streaks.
Fold in Oats
Gently fold in the rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The oats are the star of the show, giving these cookies their signature chewiness and heartiness.
Chill and Bake
Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks
Chilling the dough is non-negotiable for these cookies. It not only prevents spreading but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes, but an hour is ideal. For extra chewy cookies, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet as they’ll continue to cook from residual heat. Always use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. If you love add-ins, consider stirring in chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts after folding in the oats for a personalized touch.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Raisin Oatmeal Cookies: Mix in 1 cup of raisins for a classic combination.
- Nutty Oatmeal Cookies: Stir in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Spiced Oatmeal Cookies: Increase the cinnamon to 2 teaspoons and add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg for a spicier flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use quick oats in a pinch, rolled oats are preferred for their texture and chewiness. Quick oats are more finely ground, which can result in a less textured cookie.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies or the dough for up to 3 months.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Summary
These soft and chewy oatmeal cookies are the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, with a texture that’s irresistibly tender. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, they’re sure to delight. Perfect for any occasion or just because, these cookies are a testament to the simple pleasures of baking.