Nothing beats the comforting taste of homemade oatmeal raisin cookies. The combination of chewy oats, plump raisins, and warm spices creates a delightful treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while offering a hint of wholesome goodness.
Whether baking for a family gathering, a holiday, or a simple afternoon snack, this detailed recipe will guide you step by step. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These oatmeal raisin cookies have everything going for them. The texture hits that sweet spot — soft and chewy in the center with perfectly crisp edges. The flavor is cozy and nostalgic, thanks to a warm mix of cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla.
They’re quick to make (under 30 minutes!) and use simple pantry staples. Plus, oats and raisins bring a bit of fiber and natural sweetness, making them just a little more wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the baking process, gather the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup raisins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step aerates the butter, helping to create a chewy texture.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla
Crack the egg into the butter-sugar mixture and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined, ensuring a smooth consistency.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until the flour disappears. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Fold in Raisins and Nuts
Gently stir in the raisins and, if using, the chopped walnuts. These ingredients add extra texture and flavor, making each bite more satisfying.
7. Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
8. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. The centers should still look slightly soft.
9. Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before storing or serving.
Tips for the Best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Start by softening your butter — it blends more easily with sugar and gives the dough a smooth, even texture. Use fresh, plump raisins for the best bite. If they seem dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry before mixing in. For even chewier cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
And here’s the key to that perfect texture: don’t overbake. Pull them from the oven when the centers are just set — they’ll continue cooking on the sheet as they cool.
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How to Store and Freeze
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, toss a slice of bread into the container — it helps absorb extra moisture.
Want to freeze them?
Baked cookies will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temp before eating.
Cookie dough can be frozen too — just shape into balls, freeze on a baking sheet for an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, pop them straight in the oven and add 2–3 extra minutes to the bake time.
Variations to Try
Mix it up based on what you like. Swap the raisins for chocolate chips if you’re craving something more indulgent. Add ½ cup of shredded coconut for a hint of tropical flavor. Or go bold with spices — bump up the cinnamon and add ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Final Thoughts
Baking oatmeal raisin cookies from scratch is a rewarding experience that results in a delicious homemade treat. With their chewy texture, warm spices, and bursts of sweetness, these cookies bring comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or save some for later, they are always a delightful choice.
