If you have a soft spot for warm, chewy, and utterly comforting treats, this Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Packed with hearty oats, plump raisins, and just the right hint of cinnamon, these cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and wholesome. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a cozy bite with your afternoon tea, these cookies deliver nostalgic flavors with a delightful twist thanks to added chocolate chips, nuts, and shredded coconut. Each bite bursts with texture and warmth, making these oatmeal raisin cookies an irresistible classic you’ll want to reach for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this oatmeal raisin cookies recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each one playing a key role. From the creamy shortening or butter that adds richness to the oats that bring that signature chewy texture, every element is purposeful. The combination of spices and sweeteners weaves together a flavor that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
- 1 ½ cups shortening (or butter): Provides a rich, tender crumb and enhances flavor depth.
- 2 cups brown sugar (packed): Adds moisture and a hint of molasses for a deep sweetness.
- 1 cup sugar: Balances the brown sugar with crisp sweetness.
- 2 eggs: Bind the dough together and give it structure.
- ½ cup water: Helps blend ingredients and soften the dough.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor with warm, inviting notes.
- 6 cups uncooked oats (quick oats): The heart of the cookies, bringing hearty chewiness and fiber.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a soft yet sturdy base for the cookies.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender bite.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds that classic cozy warmth everyone loves in oatmeal cookies.
- 1 ½ cups raisins: Juicy bites that bring the authentic oatmeal raisin cookie character.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans: A crunchy contrast that adds an extra layer of texture.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Optional but highly recommended for a sweet, melty surprise.
- 1 cup shredded coconut: Adds a subtle sweetness and chewiness, making these cookies uniquely delightful.
How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This preheating step ensures your cookies bake evenly, achieving a perfect golden brown edge while staying soft inside.
Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening or butter, brown sugar, and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the water and vanilla extract. This creates a smooth, creamy base that contributes to the cookies’ tender texture.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the oats, all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon together. This step ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving every cookie an even flavor and rise.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until you get a thick, cohesive dough. It’s normal for this dough to be dense – that’s what makes these oatmeal raisin cookies so wonderfully chewy.
Step 5: Stir in Raisins and Add-Ins
Now comes the fun part. Toss in the plump raisins along with your choice of chopped walnuts or pecans, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut. Stir gently to evenly distribute all these flavorful goodies throughout your dough.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a spoon, drop dollops of dough about 1 ½ tablespoons each onto ungreased baking sheets. Be sure to leave about 2 inches between each cookie – these little beauties will spread a bit as they bake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 11 minutes, then rotate the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and bake for an additional 4 minutes. The edges should turn a lovely golden brown while the centers remain soft and chewy.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow your oatmeal raisin cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time helps them set perfectly while keeping that irresistibly soft texture inside.
How to Serve Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance or a boost of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey over your cookies. A few whole raisins or a couple of walnut halves can also make the presentation pop beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these oatmeal raisin cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of chai tea to complement the cinnamon and spice in the cookies. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside makes for a decadent dessert treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your cookies into a charming gift by stacking them in a pretty box tied with a ribbon, or sandwich two cookies together with cream cheese frosting or peanut butter for a delicious twist that friends and family will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your oatmeal raisin cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Placing a slice of bread inside the container helps to maintain their softness and chewiness.
Freezing
If you want to keep these cookies around longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months and thaw quickly when you’re ready for a sweet snack.
Reheating
Warm your cookies for 10-15 seconds in the microwave or a few minutes in a 300°F oven to restore that fresh-baked softness. This little trick makes them feel just like they came straight from your oven.
FAQs
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Absolutely! Old-fashioned oats will give your cookies a heartier texture and a bit more chew. Just keep in mind that the cookies might be slightly less uniform in shape.
Are there any substitutions for shortening?
Yes, you can use butter instead of shortening for a richer, creamier flavor. Keep in mind that butter might cause the cookies to spread a bit more.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the hearty goodness of these oatmeal raisin cookies.
How do I prevent my cookies from becoming too dry?
Make sure not to overbake your cookies and store them properly in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep moisture in. Adding a touch more brown sugar can also help retain softness.
Can I omit the chocolate chips or nuts?
Of course! The raisins are the star here, so feel free to leave out chocolate chips or nuts if you prefer a more classic oatmeal raisin cookie, or if anyone has allergies.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a cherished classic with a little extra love. Whether for a cozy night in, a family gathering, or a simple moment of indulgence, these cookies bring comfort and joy with every bite. So go ahead, grab your mixing bowl, and bake a batch that’s sure to become a treasured favorite.
Print
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 60 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies packed with chewy oats, sweet raisins, and optional nuts, chocolate chips, and coconut. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and baked to golden perfection, these cookies offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors that make a comforting treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups shortening (or butter)
- 2 cups brown sugar (packed)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup water
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 6 cups uncooked oats (quick oats)
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Add-Ins
- 1 ½ cups raisins
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat thoroughly, ensuring an even baking temperature.
- Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening (or butter), brown sugar, sugar, eggs, water, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the oats, all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring continuously until fully combined. The dough will be thick and hearty.
- Stir in Raisins and Add-Ins: Fold in the raisins, along with any optional add-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough, about 1 ½ tablespoons each, onto ungreased baking sheets, keeping roughly 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 11 minutes. Then rotate the baking sheets for even cooking and bake for an additional 4 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy once cooled or slightly warm.
Notes
- Use quick oats for a softer cookie texture; old-fashioned oats will yield a chewier cookie.
- Optionally substitute shortening with butter for richer flavor.
- Ensure cookies are spaced well on baking sheets to prevent sticking.
- Walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch but can be omitted or substituted with other nuts.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For gluten-free variation, substitute flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free.
