These Chewy Walnut Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the ultimate comfort treat, blending the nutty crunch of walnuts with the sweetness of raisins and the hearty texture of oats. They're perfect for cozy afternoons or a quick snack any time of the year.
The base of these cookies starts with all-purpose flour, which gives them structure. A touch of baking soda helps them rise just a bit while keeping that chewy texture. Ground cinnamon adds warmth, complementing the natural sweetness of raisins. A pinch of salt balances the flavors.
Unsalted butter is used for richness, allowing you to control the salt level. Granulated sugar and brown sugar create a balanced sweetness, with the brown sugar adding a hint of molasses flavor and moisture. The egg acts as a binder, while vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors.
The heartiness comes from rolled oats, which provide texture and a wholesome feel. Finally, walnuts bring a satisfying crunch, making each bite interesting.
Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combo. They also go wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful dessert. For a more sophisticated twist, enjoy them alongside a cup of herbal tea or chai.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, making cleanup a breeze later. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This step helps distribute the baking soda and spices evenly in the flour, so set it aside for now.
In a larger bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. You want to mix until it's light and fluffy; this takes about 2-3 minutes if you're using an electric mixer. Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined; it should have a smooth, slightly thick texture.
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so go easy. Fold in the oats, raisins, and chopped walnuts. Make sure these are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Using a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie for spreading. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Once done, remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.