If you’ve ever wished for a cookie that perfectly balances softness with that delightful chewy texture, then you’re in for a treat with this Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe. These cookies blend wholesome oats and plump raisins with just the right hint of cinnamon to create a nostalgic, heartwarming snack that feels like a hug in cookie form. They’re irresistibly tender on the inside while boasting a lightly golden edge, making every bite absolutely unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe just right hinges on a few simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s the creamy butter that keeps them rich or the oats that add that wonderfully hearty chew.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): This provides the creamy richness and helps the cookies stay tender and moist.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds sweet molasses notes and keeps the cookies moist for that chewy texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Boosts sweetness and encourages browning around the edges.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add moisture to the dough.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Gives a warm, aromatic depth that makes these cookies extra comforting.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The sturdy base for the cookies, ensuring they hold together just right.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly while keeping them chewy.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons): Brings a cozy, spicy warmth that’s classic in oatmeal cookies.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (3 cups): The star ingredient for texture and wholesome flavor.
- Raisins (1 cup): Give a natural sweetness with bursts of juicy chew.
- Chopped walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
How to Make Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prep step ensures your cookies will bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is key to achieving that soft texture. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract for that inviting flavor.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Combining these separately helps distribute the leavening and spices evenly throughout the dough, so every cookie is perfectly balanced.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Over-mixing can make the cookies tough, so stop once you see no flour streaks. Fold in the rolled oats, raisins, and walnuts if you’re using them, making sure all those delicious mix-ins are evenly spread.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give the cookies room to spread. Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll want the edges to turn lightly golden while keeping the centers soft and inviting.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This rest allows them to firm up just enough to move without breaking. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely—or sneak a bite while they’re still warm, you won’t regret it!
How to Serve Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Though these cookies shine on their own, you can elevate their appearance with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a stunning contrast that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Side Dishes
Pairing these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of chai tea complements the cinnamon and raisin flavors beautifully. They also make a wonderful snack alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, create a cookie sandwich with creamy peanut butter or cream cheese filling. Or, arrange them on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh fruit and nuts for a cozy snack platter that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to a week, making them perfect for snacking throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll maintain their texture for up to three months and thaw quickly.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked softness, warm cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes. This invites the flavors to bloom again and gives you a freshly baked feel anytime.
FAQs
Can I substitute raisins with another dried fruit?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or cherries work wonderfully, adding their unique sweetness and texture while maintaining that chewy charm.
Do I have to use walnuts in this recipe?
Nope, walnuts are optional! Feel free to skip them or swap for pecans or almonds if you like a different nutty crunch.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure to check your oats are certified gluten-free as well to keep the recipe safe.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Definitely. Chilling the dough for at least an hour or even overnight enhances the flavor and helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
Why are my cookies not soft and chewy?
If your cookies are turning out crispy or dry, double-check your baking time and oven temperature. Also, make sure you’re using the right ratio of brown sugar and butter, as both contribute to that beloved soft and chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you decide to whip up this Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe soon. It’s one of those timeless treats that’s easy enough for any day but special enough to share with those you love. From its warm, cinnamon-spiced aroma to its perfect balance of textures, it’s a recipe that’ll quickly become a comforting favorite in your kitchen.
Print
Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies that perfectly blend the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of raisins, and the hearty texture of rolled oats. These classic cookies are easy to prepare, baked to golden perfection, and offer a delightful chewy bite that makes them a favorite treat for all ages.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
Mix-ins
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix the wet ingredients: 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, beating well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the cookie’s flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender. Then fold in the rolled oats, raisins, and optional chopped walnuts to add texture and flavor.
- Shape and bake: Using about 2 tablespoons of dough, scoop mounds onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the cookie edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft and chewy.
- Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps preserve their soft texture.
Notes
- For softer cookies, slightly underbake them and allow to cool on the baking sheet.
- Walnuts are optional; you can omit or substitute with pecans if preferred.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- To keep cookies soft longer, add a slice of bread in the storage container to maintain moisture.
