Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – Soft & Chewy
Introduction
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless classic, loved for their comforting warmth, soft texture, and perfectly balanced sweetness. With hearty oats and plump raisins, these cookies offer a nostalgic bite that feels both indulgent and wholesome—ideal for everyday baking or special sharing moments.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Oatmeal cookies trace their roots to Scotland, where oats were a staple grain. As oats spread across Europe and later to North America, they became a popular baking ingredient. The addition of raisins gained popularity in the early 20th century, especially as home baking flourished. Today, oatmeal raisin cookies are cherished worldwide as a symbol of homemade comfort and tradition.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (240 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup (150 g) raisins
Optional Additions
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg or cloves
- ½ cup chocolate chips (for a sweeter twist)
- Orange zest for a subtle citrus note
Tips for Success
- Use old-fashioned oats for the best chewy texture.
- Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes and drain—this keeps them plump and juicy.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you prefer thicker cookies.
- Avoid overbaking; cookies should look slightly underdone in the center.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.
- Stir in oats and raisins (and any optional additions).
- Scoop dough into rounded tablespoons and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Description
These oatmeal raisin cookies are soft in the center, lightly crisp at the edges, and filled with warm cinnamon flavor. Each bite offers a satisfying chew from the oats and bursts of natural sweetness from the raisins.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie)
- Calories: 140
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Sugar: 10 g
Conclusion
Oatmeal raisin cookies remain a beloved favorite for good reason—they are simple, satisfying, and endlessly comforting. Their balance of texture and flavor makes them a go-to treat for all ages.
Recommendation
Enjoy these cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or as a wholesome snack on the go. They also freeze well, making them perfect for batch baking.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
With whole-grain oats and naturally sweet raisins, these cookies offer more than just indulgence. They remind us that treats can be both delicious and nourishing when made with thoughtful ingredients and enjoyed in moderation.