The Perfect Oatmeal Cookies

Intro
Oatmeal cookies are the perfect balance of chewy, hearty, and sweet, making them a favorite for any occasion. These cookies have a soft center with just the right amount of crisp around the edges. Whether you prefer them plain, with raisins, or packed with chocolate chips, this recipe guarantees a delicious, foolproof treat. Plus, they come together easily with simple ingredients from your pantry.

Ingredients
To make these perfect oatmeal cookies, you’ll need:

  • Old-fashioned rolled oats
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Unsalted butter
  • Brown sugar
  • Granulated sugar
  • An egg
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Sea salt
  • Optional: raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts

Using old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats gives the cookies a chewy texture. Be sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning and leveling it to avoid dense cookies.

Instructions
Start by making the dough. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed. Stir in the oats and any optional add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips.

Form the cookies by scooping heaping tablespoons of dough and rolling them into balls. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each. Lightly press down on the tops to flatten them slightly.

Bake the cookies in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes. For softer cookies, bake for 10 minutes; for crispier ones, bake for 12 minutes. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

See also  Heavenly Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

Tips
For the best texture, avoid overmixing the dough after adding the oats. Overmixing can make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking enhances the flavors and creates a richer, chewier cookie.

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. You can also freeze them for up to three months, making them a great make-ahead treat. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a quick snack whenever you crave something sweet and comforting.