Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats wafting through the house. With their soft and chewy texture, these cookies offer a perfect balance of wholesome oats and sweet, rich flavor. The old fashioned oats provide that ideal texture that makes oatmeal cookies so special, adding just the right amount of chewiness. In this article, you will learn how to make these delicious cookies, tips for achieving the perfect texture, and how to customize them with your favorite add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips.

Why You’ll Love Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats

Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats are a beloved treat for many reasons. Firstly, these cookies offer a perfect balance of flavors, with the oats providing a wholesome, slightly nutty taste and the sweet additions (like raisins, brown sugar, or chocolate chips) adding the right touch of sweetness. The combination of brown sugar and butter creates a rich, soft texture that makes each bite melt in your mouth.

Another reason these cookies are so popular is because of their versatility. You can make them just the way you like, whether you prefer to include raisins, chocolate chips, or even add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. The recipe can easily be adjusted to make them your own, allowing you to experiment with different variations. In addition, they are incredibly easy to make and perfect for baking with family or friends. There’s no need for fancy equipment or advanced techniques—just a bowl, a spoon, and a few simple ingredients.

The use of old fashioned oats gives these cookies their signature texture. Unlike quick oats, which are more finely processed, old fashioned oats have a thicker texture that holds up well in baking. They create a cookie that is chewy and hearty, with just the right amount of oat flavor. The oats also provide a natural fiber boost, making these cookies a more wholesome snack choice. You’ll love how these Classic Oatmeal Cookies make the perfect sweet treat, anytime of the day.

Recipe Details for Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats

To make the best Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. The main component is, of course, the old fashioned oats, which bring a delightful chewiness and texture to the cookies. Alongside the oats, the other ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of sweetness, flavor, and texture.

You’ll start by creaming together butter and brown sugar, which forms the base of your dough. This mixture should be smooth and creamy, with the sugar dissolved completely into the butter. Brown sugar is the preferred sweetener in oatmeal cookies because it contains molasses, adding a deeper, richer flavor compared to white sugar. Adding eggs to the mixture gives the dough structure and helps bind the ingredients together.

Once the wet ingredients are well mixed, dry ingredients such as flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon are added. These dry ingredients create the structure and flavor profile of the cookie. The cinnamon brings warmth and depth, while the salt enhances the sweetness. Lastly, the oats are mixed in, followed by any desired add-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts. After everything is mixed together, the dough is ready to be scooped onto baking sheets and baked to golden perfection.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal effort and basic ingredients, you can make homemade oatmeal cookies that are soft, chewy, and irresistibly delicious.

Nutritional Information for Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats

Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats are a delicious snack, but like all baked goods, they should be enjoyed in moderation. A typical serving of one oatmeal cookie contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the size of the cookie and any additional ingredients like raisins or chocolate chips. The oats themselves provide fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help keep you feeling full longer. This makes oatmeal cookies a more satisfying treat compared to other sugary snacks.

In addition to fiber, oats are also a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, such as manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium, which support bone health, metabolism, and energy production. The inclusion of eggs and butter adds protein and healthy fats to the cookies, while the brown sugar provides a natural sweetness without being overly processed.

If you want to make Classic Oatmeal Cookies healthier, there are a few easy swaps. You can use less sugar by reducing the amount of brown sugar or opting for a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey. You can also use unsweetened applesauce instead of some of the butter to reduce fat content while maintaining moisture. For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free.

Overall, while these cookies do contain sugar and butter, the inclusion of old fashioned oats, which are rich in fiber and nutrients, makes them a relatively healthier option compared to many other cookies.

Ingredients for Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats

To make Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups old fashioned oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup raisins (optional)
• 1 cup chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

These ingredients create the perfect base for Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats, but you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your taste. Add-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries can make these cookies even more delicious. You can also experiment with other spices such as nutmeg or ginger to give the cookies an extra layer of flavor.

Equipment Needed

To prepare your Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats, you will need the following kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk: To cream the butter and sugar together and mix the dough.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
• Baking sheet: To bake the cookies.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: For easy cleanup and to prevent the cookies from sticking.
• Cooling rack: To cool the cookies after baking.

These tools are simple yet essential for ensuring that your Classic Oatmeal Cookies come out perfectly baked, every time.

Pro Tips for Perfect Classic Oatmeal Cookies

To achieve the best Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats, follow these pro tips:

1. Use room temperature butter: Allow your butter to soften at room temperature before mixing it with the sugar. This helps create a smoother dough and better texture for your cookies.
2. Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies dense and tough.
3. Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and gives them a thicker, chewier texture.
4. Use old fashioned oats: For the best texture, always use old fashioned oats, not quick oats. Old fashioned oats provide the right chewiness and texture in the cookies.
5. Experiment with add-ins: Raisins, chocolate chips, and nuts are classic add-ins, but feel free to get creative. Dried cranberries, coconut flakes, or even seeds like sunflower seeds can add a new twist to your oatmeal cookies.

Instructions for Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Add the oats and any extras: Stir in the old fashioned oats, along with any optional add-ins such as raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts.
6. Scoop the dough: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
8. Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Recipe Variations

Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats are highly adaptable, and you can make them your own by experimenting with different flavors and ingredients:

1. Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies: Add more chocolate chips or melted chocolate for an extra chocolatey treat.
2. Coconut Oatmeal Cookies: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the oats.
3. Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies: Substitute raisins for dried cranberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies: Use gluten-free flour and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.

Storage Instructions

Store Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them out at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, and they will be as good as fresh.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious cookies with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or milk. They make an excellent afternoon snack or a sweet breakfast treat when you’re craving something a little more indulgent.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?
   Quick oats won’t give you the same chewy texture, so it’s best to use old fashioned oats for the best results.
2. Can I make these cookies vegan?
   Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use a flax egg or applesauce in place of the eggs.
3. Can I freeze the dough?
   Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze it, and then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
4. How can I make the cookies softer?
   If you prefer softer cookies, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool on the baking sheet. This will keep them chewy.
5. Can I add nuts to the dough?
   Yes, adding walnuts, pecans, or any of your favorite nuts will add extra texture and flavor to the cookies.

Conclusion

Classic Oatmeal Cookies with Old Fashioned Oats are a delicious, timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The chewy oats and rich flavor profile make these cookies incredibly satisfying and versatile. Whether you stick with the classic raisin version or get creative with different add-ins, these cookies are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while enjoying a little bit of wholesome goodness. Enjoy baking these cookies and share the love with family and friends you’ll surely make them a regular in your cookie jar!

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