If you're searching for a cozy, comforting treat, look no further than these Traditional Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. With a perfect balance of chewiness and warmth, these cookies are a classic for a reason. They're simple to make and even easier to enjoy, whether it's a chilly day or just a regular Tuesday.
Butter is the base fat that gives these cookies their rich flavor and helps achieve a chewy texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final product. Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps create a slightly crisp edge, while brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper flavor due to its molasses content.
Eggs act as a binding agent, holding all the ingredients together and adding richness. Vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and aroma. Flour is the structure of the cookie, while baking soda helps them rise just enough to stay chewy.
Cinnamon brings a warm spice that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. Salt balances the flavors and enhances all the sweet notes. Old-fashioned oats are the star of the show, giving these cookies their signature texture and heartiness. Lastly, raisins add little bursts of natural sweetness that complement the oats perfectly.
These cookies are delightful on their own, but if you're looking to dress them up, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of chai tea. For a festive touch, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and makes clean-up a breeze. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which makes for a tender cookie.
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully integrated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aroma. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. This gradual mixing helps ensure that the dough remains smooth and well combined.
Once your dough is looking nice and cohesive, stir in the oats and raisins. Make sure they are evenly distributed to avoid any uneven bites. Now, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
Once they're out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly so they won't fall apart when you move them. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, if you can resist sneaking one right away!
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