If you’re in the mood for a classic, comforting treat, these Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the perfect choice. Packed with old-fashioned rolled oats, plump raisins, and warm cinnamon, these cookies offer a delightful texture and rich flavor. They’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy, making them an ideal option for a cozy snack or dessert.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract (yes, Tablespoon!)
- 1 Tablespoon molasses
- 1 and 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour (spoon & leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups (240g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats
- 1 cup (140g) raisins
- Optional: 1/2 cup (64g) chopped toasted walnuts
👩🍳 Directions
1️⃣ Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
2️⃣ Add the Eggs:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix on high speed until fully combined, about 1 minute. Be sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
3️⃣ Add Vanilla and Molasses:
- Add the vanilla extract and molasses to the mixture and continue mixing on high speed until fully combined. Set the wet mixture aside.
4️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate mixing bowl, toss together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
5️⃣ Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should start to come together but will be thick.
6️⃣ Add Oats, Raisins, and Nuts:
- Beat in the old-fashioned oats, raisins, and chopped toasted walnuts (if using) on low speed. The dough will be thick and sticky.
7️⃣ Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
8️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
9️⃣ Form the Cookies:
- Roll balls of dough, about 2 tablespoons each, and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
🔟 Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies for 11-13 minutes, or until they are very lightly browned on the sides. The centers will look soft and slightly underdone, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Cool the Cookies:
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
🍪 Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Cookies stay fresh when covered at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Baked cookies freeze well for up to three months. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Freezing Cookie Dough: Unbaked cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for an extra minute or two—no need to thaw.
Conclusion
These Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the ultimate comfort treat, perfect for enjoying with a glass of milk or sharing with loved ones. With their warm spices, chewy oats, and sweet raisins, they’re a nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you’re baking for yourself or for a crowd, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!