These Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a classic treat that evoke nostalgia with every bite. Perfectly chewy and packed with warm cinnamon flavor, they're your go-to cookie for comfort and coziness.
Butter is the base of our cookie dough, lending richness and helping the cookies spread just right. We use a mix of white sugar and brown sugar for a balance of sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor from the brown sugar. The eggs are our binding agent, giving structure to the cookies, while a splash of vanilla extract adds a comforting aroma.
All-purpose flour forms the bulk of the dough, with baking soda providing the lift. A touch of salt enhances all flavors, and ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice. The star of the show, quick cooking oats, gives the cookies their signature chewiness, while raisins add pockets of sweetness in every bite.
These cookies are a wonderful accompaniment to a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of chamomile tea. For a special treat, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's nice and hot when your dough is ready, crucial for achieving that lovely golden brown finish.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar. You want this mixture smooth, so take your time here. Once it's ready, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that cozy, homey aroma.
Next, in a separate bowl, combine your flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually stir this dry mixture into your creamed ingredients. Be gentle and mix until just blended to avoid overworking the dough.
Now, it's time for the oats and raisins. Fold them into the dough, ensuring they're evenly distributed. This ensures every bite is consistently full of texture and taste.
Drop the dough by rounded teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets. This is where you can involve the little ones if they're around — they love this part! Bake for 8 to 10 minutes; you're looking for a golden hue.
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is crucial as it prevents breakage and ensures they set properly.