Oatmeal Raisin Cookies : Homemade Goodness

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The smell of oatmeal raisin cookies baking is like a warm hug. It reminds me of my childhood. My grandmother would make cookies for our family, and they were always a hit.
She made the perfect chewy cookies with just the right spices. It was like magic in the kitchen.
If you love oatmeal raisin cookies, you’re in for a treat. In this guide, I’ll share how to make amazing cookies at home. We’ll cover everything from texture to flavor, so you can make these treats a favorite at home.
Table of Contents
The Story of Homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
A Cherished Recipe from RecipeZaar Days
Oatmeal raisin cookies have a long history in American cooking. The first recipe was published by Fannie Merritt Farmer in 1896. These cookies became popular for their health benefits, thanks to oats and raisins.
Many of us have fond memories of baking these cookies. For those who were part of the RecipeZaar community, they hold a special place. This recipe has changed over time but always stays true to its homemade roots.
“I joined Food.com when the site was RecipeZaar, April 24, 2001. This site has been a favorite with me for many years now with its unique features and especially for the many, many dear friends I have met here. If you are a new visitor, I hope you will stop for a while and check us out. I hope you will find it as special as I have.”
The Quaker Oats Company helped make oatmeal cookies famous. They put recipes on their packaging and called them a healthy snack. This has made oatmeal raisin cookies a favorite American dessert.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to homemade desserts, oatmeal raisin cookies are a classic. Their story shows how delicious, wholesome recipes can bring people together and create lasting memories.
What Makes the Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookie?
The perfect oatmeal raisin cookies need a soft, chewy texture and warm spices. They should be more than just raisins. They should be a treat in themselves.
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Soft, Chewy, and Warmly Spiced: The Ideal Texture
The best oatmeal raisin cookies have a soft center. They are chewy and have a comforting flavor. This comes from cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of molasses.
The Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies recipe is a hit. It has a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 878 reviews. Chilling the dough for 30-60 minutes makes them tender and chewy.
Adding 1 tablespoon each of vanilla extract and molasses gives them a rich flavor. With 3 cups of oats, these cookies are hearty and delicious. They are loved by raisin fans and haters alike.

“These cookies are truly the best! From Sarah Copeland’s cookbook Every Day Is Saturday, they’re soft and chewy, warmly spiced, and flecked with raisins and nuts.”
The recipe makes 26-30 cookies. It uses 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of brown sugar. Baked at 350°F for 12-13 minutes, they are golden and tender inside.
Ingredients for Irresistible Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
To make delicious oatmeal raisin cookies, start by gathering some pantry staples. This classic dough is easy to make with ingredients you probably have at home.
The dough’s base is all-purpose flour and whole rolled oats, for a great texture. Baking powder and baking soda make the cookies soft and puffy. Brown sugar adds a sweet caramel flavor, and sea salt balances it all.
Cinnamon and vanilla extract give the cookies a warm, spiced taste. Coconut oil or melted butter adds moisture and richness. A large egg and an extra egg yolk make the dough thick and luscious.
The cookies wouldn’t be complete without raisins and walnuts. Raisins add chewy sweetness, and walnuts bring a crunchy, nutty flavor.
With these easy oatmeal raisin cookie ingredients, you’re ready to bake a batch that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 1 3/4 cups |
Whole rolled oats | 2 cups |
Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon |
Brown sugar | 1 cup |
Sea salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Coconut oil or melted butter | 1/2 cup |
Large egg | 1 |
Egg yolk | 1 |
Raisins | 1 1/2 cups |
Walnuts, chopped | 1 cup |
With these basic baking essentials and pantry items, you’re set to make delicious oatmeal raisin cookies.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Making oatmeal raisin cookies at home is easy. You need just a few ingredients and some time. Follow these steps to make delicious homemade cookies.
Pro Tips for Baking the Best Oatmeal Cookies
To make your oatmeal raisin cookies soft and chewy, remember these tips:
- Use brown sugar and white sugar for the best texture. Brown sugar makes them chewy, while white sugar adds crispiness.
- Let the dough rest for 20 minutes. This lets the oats soak and the flavors mix well.
- Scoop the dough into balls with a cookie scoop. This ensures even baking.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. They’re done when the edges are golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet. This makes them soft and chewy.
- Read more : White Chocolate Raspberry Dream Cake Recipe
Follow these tips to make amazing oatmeal raisin cookies. Enjoy the delicious smell and taste of homemade cookies.

Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Raisins | 1 cup |
Rolled oats | 3 cups |
Brown sugar | 1 cup |
White sugar | 1/2 cup |
Butter | 1/2 cup |
Eggs | 2 |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Baking powder | 1 tsp |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
With these simple ingredients and steps, you can make delicious how to make oatmeal raisin cookies. Just follow the easy baking steps and cookie baking tips for the best results.
Variations and Customizations
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a favorite, but why stick to just one recipe? You can explore many tasty variations and customizations. Whether you want a new twist or to add your own touch, there’s no limit to what you can do.
Creative Twists on the Classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookie
Looking to try something new? Here are some ideas:
- Swap the raisins for chocolate chips to make oatmeal chocolate chip cookies.
- Use a mix of raisins and chocolate chips for the best of both worlds.
- Replace the walnuts with pecans for a delightful nutty flavor.
- Substitute the raisins with dried cherries or cranberries for a pop of tartness.
- Add a dash of cardamom or ginger to the dough for warm, spicy notes.
- Try butterscotch chips instead of raisins for an extra-buttery taste.
Oatmeal raisin cookies are very versatile. Feel free to mix and match ingredients and flavors. With a bit of creativity, you can make the classic into something truly special.

So, don’t be afraid to try something new with this beloved cookie. The possibilities are endless, and you’re sure to create something amazing.
Storing and Freezing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Keeping your homemade oatmeal raisin cookies fresh is simple. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
To freeze, roll the dough into balls and freeze for 2 hours. Then, put them in an airtight container or resealable bag. This way, you can bake them straight from the freezer for a fresh taste. Or, roll the dough into a log, wrap it, and slice into rounds before baking.
Preserving baked goods means keeping them away from air and moisture. Oatmeal raisin cookies, with their high moisture, have a shorter shelf life. Using airtight containers and avoiding over-baking helps keep them soft and chewy longer.
Enjoy your oatmeal raisin cookies now or save them for later. These storage and freezing tips ensure you can enjoy the perfect bite anytime. Don’t forget to tag @theleangreenbean on Instagram if you try this recipe!
“The key to preserving the delicious texture of homemade oatmeal raisin cookies is proper storage and freezing techniques.”
Make-Ahead Oatmeal Cookie Dough
Calling all cookie lovers! This recipe is a game-changer for fans of homemade oatmeal raisin cookies. The dough can be made ahead, making it easy to enjoy fresh-baked cookies with little effort.
This oatmeal cookie recipe is versatile for storage. You can keep the dough in the fridge for 7-10 days or freeze it for a month. This means you’re always ready for a cookie craving.
To store the dough, roll it into balls or logs and wrap them tightly. Then, refrigerate or freeze. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the dough from the fridge into the oven. If it’s frozen, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes first.
This oatmeal cookie dough is perfect for easy cookie prep. It’s great for baking with kids or keeping homemade treats ready. Enjoy the convenience of refrigerator and freezer storage and the delicious taste of make-ahead oatmeal cookies.
“The secret to having homemade cookies on demand is in the make-ahead dough. With this recipe, you can enjoy the perfect oatmeal raisin cookie anytime, without the fuss.”
oatmeal raisin cookies: A Healthier Take
Enjoy the classic taste of healthy oatmeal raisin cookies that are both tasty and good for you. These treats are filled with oats, raisins, and cinnamon. They have only 100 calories per cookie, with no refined flour or sugar.
Secrets to the Ultimate Healthy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
To make these oatmeal raisin cookies healthier, the recipe uses whole wheat or gluten-free flour. It also includes instant oats and a bit of coconut oil or butter. Honey or agave is used instead of refined sugar, making them a natural choice.
Soaking the raisins in hot water is a key step. It makes them plump and juicy. This keeps the cookies soft and chewy, even after they’re baked.
Recipe Yield | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
---|---|---|---|
15 cookies | 30 minutes | 11 minutes | 1 hour, 21 minutes |
These low-calorie desserts have earned an average rating of 4.89 out of 5 from 410 votes. They’re a top choice for those looking for a clean eating recipe that’s still delicious.
“These oatmeal raisin cookies are a game-changer. They’re so soft, chewy, and satisfying, yet I don’t have to feel guilty about indulging. The perfect healthy treat!”
Bake a batch of these healthy oatmeal raisin cookies for a tasty and nutritious snack. They’ll leave you feeling full and nourished. Enjoy the best of clean eating recipes with this amazing cookie recipe.
More Delightful Cookie Recipes to Explore
If you love oatmeal raisin cookies, there’s more to discover! Check out a wide range of cookie recipe ideas and homemade dessert inspiration. You’ll find chewy, crunchy, and soft-baked treats to please everyone.
Try the Snickerdoodle Cookies for a cinnamon-sugar treat. The Easy Sugar Cookies are great for decorating. And for peanut butter fans, the Best Peanut Butter Cookies are a must-try.
For no-bake treats, the No Bake Cookies are quick and tasty. The Thumbprint Cookies offer a unique jam or chocolate surprise. And the Chewy Molasses Cookies add a spicy twist.
Don’t miss the Homemade Brownies for a chocolate fix. With these recipes, your baking collection will expand in exciting ways.
“Baking is like washing – the results are equally temporary, but the process is edifying and satisfying. Moreover, it can produce delightful, ever-changing gifts to share.”
Conclusion
These oatmeal raisin cookies are soft, chewy, and full of warm spices. They’re easy to make with simple steps and helpful tips. You’ll love making and eating them, whether you stick to the classic recipe or try something new.
This recipe has 25% fewer calories and half the saturated fat of others. It uses fresh-milled flour, rolled oats, and raisins. This makes it a tasty, healthier choice for you.
Baking these cookies is a fun way to make a classic dessert your own. You can try different tips and variations to find your favorite. So, get your oven ready, grab your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious flavors of these cookies.
FAQ
What makes these oatmeal raisin cookies the “perfect” recipe?
These cookies are the perfect mix of soft, chewy, and spiced. They have a rich dough and a moist texture. It’s what makes them the best oatmeal raisin cookies.
What are the key ingredients in this oatmeal raisin cookie recipe?
The main ingredients are all-purpose flour, whole rolled oats, and baking powder. You also need baking soda, brown sugar, and sea salt. Cinnamon, vanilla extract, and coconut oil or melted butter are key. Plus, 1 large egg plus an extra egg yolk, raisins, and walnuts.
How easy is it to make these oatmeal raisin cookies?
Making these cookies is super easy. You don’t need a stand mixer. Just whisk the wet and dry ingredients separately. Then mix them together until just combined. Finally, fold in the walnuts, oats, and raisins.
Can I customize or vary this oatmeal raisin cookie recipe?
Yes, you can customize this recipe. Try substituting chocolate chips for raisins or pecans for walnuts. You can also use dried cherries or cranberries instead of raisins. Adding a dash of cardamom or ginger is another option. Or, replace raisins with butterscotch chips.
How should I store these oatmeal raisin cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They freeze well for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough in balls or logs for later baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for 7 to 10 days or freeze for up to a month. Roll the dough into balls or logs, wrap tightly, and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
How can I make these oatmeal raisin cookies healthier?
To make them healthier, use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour. Choose instant oats, coconut oil or butter, and honey or agave as sweeteners. Hydrating the raisins is a secret step for extra softness.
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