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Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Ingredients for Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 cup raisins

Directions

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  5. Incorporate Oats and Raisins: Stir in the rolled oats and raisins until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  6. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
  7. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cookies

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps in achieving a smooth and creamy batter.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
  • Plump Your Raisins: If your raisins are a bit dry, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the dough. Drain well and pat dry.
  • Chill the Dough: For even chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Wire racks

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your chewy oatmeal raisin cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let the cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Variations and Swaps

  • Add-Ins: Feel free to customize your cookies with additional add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
  • Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dough.
  • Healthier Options: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a slightly healthier version.

Food and Drink Pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent treat, enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats? A: Quick oats can be used, but the texture will be slightly different. Old-fashioned rolled oats provide a chewier texture that’s ideal for this recipe.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free? A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your oats are also certified gluten-free.

Q: What can I use instead of raisins? A: If you’re not a fan of raisins, you can use dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips.

Q: How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much? A: Chilling the dough before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much. Also, make sure your baking sheets are cool before adding the dough.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48