For a delightful treat that never fails to bring a smile to your face, look no further than the classic oatmeal cookie. Soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome oats and sweet ingredients, these cookies are a perennial favorite that is perfect for any time of the year. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or a midnight indulgence, the Best Oatmeal Cookies are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Best Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons 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 or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that perfect cookie texture.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cookie.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring that it is evenly distributed throughout the batter. The aroma of vanilla will infuse the cookies with a warm, comforting flavor.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. These dry ingredients should be combined thoroughly to ensure even distribution in the cookie dough.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired soft and chewy texture.
7. Fold in the oats and raisins or chocolate chips, if using. The oats provide a hearty texture, while the add-ins offer bursts of sweetness in every bite.
8. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread as they bake.
9. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft. Remember that the cookies will continue to cook on the hot baking sheet after they are taken out of the oven.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period helps the cookies set and develop their final texture.
These Best Oatmeal Cookies are a timeless treat that is sure to please everyone in your household. Make a batch today and watch them disappear in no time. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade goodness with each delicious bite!
