Welcome to the comforting world of Maple Walnut Oatmeal Raisin Cookies! This recipe combines the hearty goodness of oats with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, creating a cookie that’s perfect for cozy afternoons and family gatherings.
Butter is the backbone of any great cookie, providing both flavor and structure. Here, it helps create a tender crumb and rich taste. Brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of molasses, while granulated sugar balances the sweetness. Eggs bind everything together and add richness. The star, maple syrup, brings a unique, earthy sweetness that really sets these cookies apart.
Vanilla extract enhances the flavors with its warm aroma. The blend of all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder gives structure and lift, while salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. A generous amount of cinnamon provides warmth and spice. Old-fashioned oats offer that classic chewy texture, with raisins adding sweet bursts and walnuts providing a satisfying crunch.
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a cozy afternoon treat, pair them with a warm chai latte or a glass of cold milk.
First, get your oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). You'll want to line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which contributes to the cookie's tender texture.
Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before moving on. Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract, and mix until everything is smooth and well-blended. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can make the cookies tough.
Now, stir in the oats, raisins, and chopped walnuts. You want these ingredients to be evenly distributed throughout the dough. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake them in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.