Baked Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Baked Oatmeal Raisin Cookies : A Classic Recipe for Soft and Chewy Perfection"
Introduction:
Nothing beats the comforting taste of Oatmeal Raisin Cookies fresh out of the oven. These classic cookies are a favorite for many, combining the hearty texture of oats with the natural sweetness of raisins. Whether you're baking for a family gathering, a school bake sale, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is the perfect choice. Follow along for a simple, step-by-step guide to creating soft, chewy, and delicious oatmeal raisin cookies.
Why You’ll Love These Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:
- Classic Flavor: The combination of oats, raisins, and cinnamon creates a timeless flavor that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, these cookies are perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredient List:
- 1/2 cup of shortening (Crisco) – Helps create a tender and chewy texture.
- 2 cups of brown sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-like flavor to the cookies.
- 1 cup of granulated sugar – Balances the sweetness and enhances the cookie structure.
- 2 large eggs – Provides moisture and binds the ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup of water – Keeps the dough moist for soft cookies.
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract – Adds depth and enhances the flavor.
- 6 cups of uncooked oats – The star ingredient that gives the cookies a hearty texture.
- 2 1/2 cups of flour – Helps form the structure of the cookies.
- 2 teaspoons of salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
- 2 teaspoons of cinnamon – Adds warmth and a subtle spice to the cookies.
- 1 1/2 cups of raisins – Provides natural sweetness and chewiness.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening (Crisco), brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, water, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Add the Oats and Raisins:
- Stir in the uncooked oats and raisins until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the Cookies:
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
6. Bake:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 11 minutes. After the first 11 minutes, rotate the baking sheets from front to back and top to bottom racks for even baking.
- Check the cookies after an additional 4 minutes. They should be golden brown around the edges but soft in the center.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This recipe makes about 60 cookies.
Customization Ideas:
- Chocolate Chips: Swap out the raisins for chocolate chips or add both for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Nuts: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie.
- Coconut: Add shredded coconut to give the cookies a tropical twist.
Conclusion:
These Baked Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their soft and chewy texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and bursts of sweet raisins, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're baking them for a special event or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these cookies are easy to make and impossible to resist. Try this recipe today and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade cookies!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening, but the texture may be slightly less chewy and more crisp.
Q2: How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Yes, but using old-fashioned oats will give the cookies a chewier texture, while quick oats will make them softer.
Q4: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can make this recipe gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Q5: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw the dough before baking.
Additional Tips:
- Make Them Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use vegan butter or shortening for a delicious vegan version of these cookies.
- Add a Drizzle: For a fun twist, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies.
