Deliciously Chewy Oatmeal Cookies: A Recipe for Success
Are you ready to bake up a batch of irresistible oatmeal cookies? This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect chewy texture, packed with flavor and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's get started!
Ingredients for Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Adjust as needed for your baking needs.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)
- ½ cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions: Baking Your Perfect Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Prep the Butter and Sugars
Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving a tender crumb. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 5: Stir in Oats and Mix-ins
Stir in the rolled oats, chocolate chips (if using), raisins (if using), and nuts (if using).
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Leave some space between cookies as they will spread.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them; ovens vary!
Step 7: Cooling and Enjoying
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Chewy Oatmeal Cookie Success
- Use brown sugar: Brown sugar contributes to the chewy texture.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough (optional): Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and enhances the chewy texture.
- Use good quality oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture and flavor.
- Experiment with add-ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or butterscotch chips are all delicious additions.
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