Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. Oatmeal raisin cookies evoke memories of cozy afternoons spent with family, and every bite offers a delightful chewiness that perfectly complements the sweetness of raisins. This Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe is not just a treat; it’s a nostalgic experience that brings warmth to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just indulging yourself, these cookies deliver a satisfying crunch and a soft, chewy interior that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works

This Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The combination of quick-cooking oats provides a hearty chew, while the unsalted butter ensures a rich, buttery flavor that enhances every bite. The inclusion of brown sugar brings depth and moisture, preventing the cookies from being overly sweet. The hint of ground cinnamon adds a warm spice that elevates the classic flavor profile, making these cookies irresistible. With simple steps and accessible ingredients, achieving cookie perfection has never been easier.
Ingredient Rundown
To create these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and gives them a nice texture.
- 1 cup (186g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies.
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened – Contributes to the rich flavor and chewy texture.
- 1 cup (300g) packed brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3 cups (277g) quick cooking oats – Provides the signature chewiness.
- 1 cup raisins – Sweet bursts of flavor that complement the oats.
Essential Tools for Success
Before you begin baking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key to perfect cookies.
- Electric mixer – Makes creaming the butter and sugar quick and easy.
- Baking sheet – A sturdy surface for your cookies to bake evenly.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cooling rack – Allows cookies to cool properly without becoming soggy.
Mastering Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe: How-To

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup effortless.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 7: Fold in Oats and Raisins
Using a spatula, gently fold in the quick cooking oats and raisins until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Step 9: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, enjoy your delicious Oatmeal Raisin Cookies!
Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some healthier adjustments to this Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe, consider the following substitutions:
- Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Unsweetened applesauce can replace half of the butter for a lower-fat option.
- Maple syrup or honey can be used in place of brown sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Dark chocolate chips can be added for a touch of indulgence and antioxidants.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
After extensive testing, we found that chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavor and texture. It helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and results in a chewier cookie.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough.
- If you prefer a less chewy cookie, you can use old-fashioned oats instead of quick cooking oats.
- Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins, like chocolate chips or coconut flakes, to customize your cookies!
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your Oatmeal Raisin Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
- To enjoy frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Your Top Questions
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats?
Yes, you can use rolled oats! However, the texture of the cookies may be slightly different, as rolled oats will provide a chewier bite.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The edges should be golden brown, and the centers will look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips along with the oats and raisins for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you’re not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
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Time to Try It
Now that you have all the details to make these scrumptious Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to create a batch of cookies that not only tastes divine but also fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, these cookies are sure to become a beloved favorite in your household. Embrace the joy of baking and share these delightful treats with your family and friends. Happy baking!

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
- Step 2: Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda.
- Step 4: Cream butter and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Step 5: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Step 6: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Step 7: Fold in oats and raisins gently until evenly distributed.
- Step 8: Scoop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart.
- Step 9: Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Step 10: Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor and texture.
- Add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like dark chocolate chips!
