If you’ve been searching high and low for a truly comforting, chewy, and packed-with-flavor treat, you’ve come to the right place. The Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe is a timeless classic that brings together the warm spices of cinnamon, the wholesome goodness of oats, and the natural sweetness of plump raisins. These cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and chewy, with a touch of crunchy walnuts for those who want an extra layer of texture. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or alongside your afternoon tea, this recipe is guaranteed to become your new favorite go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make the Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe is as simple as gathering a handful of pantry staples that each play a vital role in making these cookies so irresistible. From the rich, creamy butter to the hearty oats and sweet raisins, every ingredient contributes something essential to the flavor, texture, and appearance of these delightful cookies.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy richness that keeps the cookies soft and flavorful.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds deep caramel notes and moisture for that chewy texture.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps create a slight crisp edge.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warmth and depth.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy base that holds everything together.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise perfectly and creates a tender crumb.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds aromatic warmth and complements the raisins beautifully.
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats: Delivers heartiness and chewy goodness in each bite.
- 1 cup raisins: Provides natural sweetness and juiciness that pairs so well with oats.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Make Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect baking. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for that wonderfully tender crumb. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract to infuse that lovely, inviting aroma throughout your dough.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This little blend of dry ingredients ensures the cookies have just the right lift and a hint of warm spice. Gently fold this mixture into your wet ingredients, taking care not to overmix, to keep your cookies tender and soft.
Step 3: Incorporate Oats and Raisins
Now comes the star of the show: oats and raisins! Stir in the hearty old-fashioned oats along with plump, juicy raisins. If you’re a fan of a little extra texture and a nutty twist, toss in the chopped walnuts too. This combination creates the classic chewy texture and sweet bursts that make these cookies unforgettable.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Using a tablespoon-sized scoop, portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart so they can spread evenly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown. The centers will still look a bit soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Patience here pays off with the best texture!
How to Serve Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are incredible on their own, adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon right before serving can elevate their cozy charm. For a decadent touch, you might even dip one edge in melted dark chocolate or a smooth caramel drizzle for a sweet surprise.
Side Dishes
Pair your Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe with classic favorites like a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of black tea to bring out their warm flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also turn these cookies into a dreamy dessert that’s hard to resist.
Creative Ways to Present
Make cookie gift boxes by stacking these homemade beauties with parchment paper in between, tied off with a festive ribbon—perfect for sharing your delicious creation with friends and family. Or, arrange them on a rustic wooden board accompanied by fresh fruit and nuts for a charming cookie platter at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your baked cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to five days, making it easy to satisfy a sweet tooth any time.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, these oatmeal raisin cookies freeze beautifully. Freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. You can also freeze the dough balls, wrapped tightly, for baking fresh when the craving hits.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies warm, simply pop frozen or room-temperature cookies into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This gently brings back their soft chewiness and lets the flavors bloom just like they’re fresh from the batch.
FAQs
Can I substitute raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! You can swap raisins for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even dried cherries to give the cookies a different burst of flavor. Just keep the quantity roughly the same and enjoy your personalized twist.
Are old-fashioned oats necessary for this recipe?
Using old-fashioned oats is best because they hold their shape and provide that classic chewy texture. Quick oats can work in a pinch but may result in a softer, less textured cookie.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, you can enjoy this recipe gluten-free. Just be sure your other ingredients, like oats, are labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What’s the best way to keep the cookies soft?
Storing cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread helps retain moisture and keeps them soft longer. Also, avoid overbaking; pulling them out when the edges are golden but centers slightly soft is key.
Can I omit the walnuts?
Definitely! The walnuts are optional and can be left out if you prefer a nut-free cookie or want a simpler texture. The cookies are still deliciously satisfying without them.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully nostalgic and heartwarming about the Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe that makes it a perennial favorite in kitchens everywhere. Once you bake this batch, you’ll understand why it’s so cherished—not only for the amazing flavors but also for how easy and fun it is to make. I can’t wait for you to try it out and see how these cookies bring a cozy sweetness to your day!
Print
Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
These Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a comforting snack or dessert, these cookies combine the rich flavors of butter and brown sugar with the satisfying texture of old-fashioned oats for a timeless classic treat.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Add-ins
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Incorporate Oats and Raisins: Fold in the old-fashioned oats, raisins, and optional chopped walnuts to ensure even distribution throughout the dough.
- Shape and Bake: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake by removing from oven at 10 minutes.
- Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor variation.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Use old-fashioned oats for best texture; quick oats will change the consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
