There’s something comforting about the familiar aroma of cookies baking in the oven, and trust me, once you get a taste of these Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, you’ll want to make them your go-to treat! Picture this: your oven is warming up, the scent of melted butter and brown sugar fills the air, and soon you’ll be enveloped in waves of cinnamon and vanilla.
I found this recipe while searching for a sweet solution to curb my evening cravings and was thrilled to discover how delightfully easy it is to whip up these cookies—perfectly soft with a chewy texture, thanks to the old-fashioned oats. They’re not just a delicious treat; they also make for a crowd-pleasing dessert at any gathering or a warm gift for friends. Plus, with just 27 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy homemade goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s create something truly special that will bring smiles to everyone around!
Why love these Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies?
Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of butter, brown sugar, and warm cinnamon creates a flavor that simply melts in your mouth.
Quick & Easy: With only 27 minutes from prep to plate, you can satisfy your cookie cravings without back-breaking effort.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are a hit at parties, picnics, or cozy evenings at home, making them perfect for sharing.
Nutritious Spin: Thanks to the old-fashioned rolled oats and raisins, you’ll enjoy a delightful treat that is also wholesome.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for a personal twist; the possibilities are endless!
Dive deeper into the world of baking with our cookie guide for more cookie fun!
Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Ingredients
For the Dough
- Unsalted butter – cold for creaminess that binds the flavors beautifully.
- Light brown sugar – packed to add that rich molasses flavor which enhances the cookie’s sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – a touch ensures a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
- Large eggs – they provide moisture and help to bind the dough together.
- Pure vanilla extract – adds a warm, inviting flavor that enhances all other ingredients.
For the Dry Mix
- All-purpose flour – the foundation of your cookies, giving them structure.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – these provide that signature chewy texture and nutty flavor in every bite.
- Ground cinnamon – a sprinkle offers warmth and aromatic spice that elevates the cookies.
- Salt – just a pinch to bring out the sweetness and enhance overall flavor.
- Baking soda – a leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
For the Add-ins
- Raisins – these bring natural sweetness and chewiness, making your Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies truly special; feel free to swap for chocolate chips for a different twist!
Gather these ingredients, and let your kitchen fill with that unforgettable aroma of cookies baking — you’ll be in for a delightful treat!
How to Make Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out just right, setting the stage for that mouthwatering aroma to fill your kitchen!
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Soften the cold butter in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until it’s around 70°F. This will help you achieve that creamy texture needed to create the perfect cookie dough.
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Combine the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mix is creamy and well blended, giving your cookies an irresistible sweetness.
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Add the eggs and pure vanilla extract. Continue beating until everything is nicely incorporated, enhancing the flavor and moisture of the dough.
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Mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl—flour, oats, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet dough while mixing on low speed, stopping when everything is just combined to ensure soft cookies.
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Fold in the raisins gently, taking care to mix just until incorporated. This ensures your cookies are dotted with sweet, chewy bites of raisin in every luscious mouthful.
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Scoop the dough using a large cookie scoop onto a lined baking sheet, placing each ball about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows room for spreading while baking, so the cookies stay soft and chewy.
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Bake for 11-13 minutes until the centers are slightly underbaked but starting to set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, allowing them to firm up a bit.
Optional: Serve warm with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these beloved cookies, adding your favorite flavors and ingredients!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist that complements the chewy oats beautifully. The nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the raisins, creating a satisfying texture contrast.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free yogurt in place of eggs for a vegan version that’s equally delicious. This variation lends a subtle tropical taste while keeping the cookies soft and chewy.
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Chocolate Chip Boost: Swap out half the raisins for chocolate chips to satisfy your sweet tooth! The rich chocolate melts with the warmth of the cookies, making every bite a dreamy blend of flavors.
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg along with the cinnamon to bring a warm and cozy spice profile to your cookies. This simple twist takes your baking to another level of aromatic goodness!
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Cranberry Raisin Fusion: Mix in 1 cup of dried cranberries in addition to the raisins for a fruity tang that brightens up the flavors. The tartness of cranberries will harmonize beautifully with the sweet cookie base.
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Zesty Orange: Incorporate the zest of one orange into the dough for a refreshing citrus note that elevates the overall flavor experience. The zesty aroma will transport you to sunny citrus orchards with each bite!
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Pumpkin Spice: Swap the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice during the fall season for a festive and seasonal take on the classic cookie. The warm spice blend will evoke memories of cozy autumn gatherings.
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Heat it Up: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder for a surprising kick of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. This thrilling twist will awaken your taste buds in the best way possible!
Embrace these variations and create delightful cookies that will make your kitchen sing with joy!
What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies?
Indulging in warm, freshly baked cookies always calls for delightful companions to complete the experience.
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Cold Milk: A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies and enhances the textures with its creamy richness.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee cut through the sweetness, making it a perfect contrast for your cookie treat. Enjoy it on a cozy afternoon!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla and cold temperature create a delightful contrast to the warm, chewy cookies for an unforgettable dessert.
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Fruit Salad: Fresh, colorful fruits add a refreshing burst of flavor and lightness that balances the richness of the cookies perfectly.
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Nutty Granola: This crunchy and wholesome mix offers a satisfying contrast to the soft and chewy texture of the cookies, making for a delightful snack.
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Dark Chocolate Dip: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over your cookies elevates the flavors with its bittersweet richness, creating a decadent experience.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai perfectly intertwine with the cinnamon in the cookies, creating a cozy pairing that’s perfect for sipping.
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Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide an unexpected gourmet twist, enriching the flavor profile of every bite.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel on top adds an indulgent touch, transforming your treat into a luscious dessert.
Enjoy the delightful combinations that will turn your cookie moment into a full experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients as directed, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. You can also scoop the cookie dough onto the baking sheet, refrigerate it, and bake straight from the fridge, adding a minute or two to the baking time. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 3 months; just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. This way, you’ll have warm, homemade cookies ready to bake on busy weeknights, saving you time without compromising on flavor!
Tips for the Best Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your cold butter is softened but not melted. This helps create the perfect creamy base for your dough.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to maintain that delightful softness in your cookies. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies!
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking. Slightly underbaking them will yield that desired chewy center; they will continue to set as they cool.
Raisin Alternatives: Consider swapping raisins for chocolate chips or nuts. This simple change can add a delightful twist to your Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies!
Store Wisely: To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, separating layers with parchment paper.
How to Store and Freeze Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For optimal freshness, freeze these delightful Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid before transferring them to an airtight container.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This restores their delightful texture beautifully!
Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe raisins?
Absolutely! When selecting raisins, look for plump, moist ones without dark spots or a hard texture. They should have a slightly glossy finish and feel soft to the touch, indicating they’re still fresh and ready to sweeten your cookies!
How should I store the cookies to maintain freshness?
I recommend keeping your Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This prevents them from becoming dry and helps maintain their chewy texture. If you prefer a longer storage option, refrigerate them for up to a week, making sure they’re wrapped tightly to keep the moisture in.
Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Certainly! You can freeze your cookies for up to 3 months to enjoy them later. To do this, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. For additional protection, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes!
What should I do if my cookies are turning out too tough?
Very! If you find your cookies are tough, it might be due to over-mixing the dough. Remember to mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Additionally, make sure to slightly underbake them; the cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven, helping maintain that soft and chewy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations when making these cookies?
Of course! If you or someone you’re sharing with has dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use gluten-free flour if needed. Additionally, for those sensitive to eggs, you can use flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg) for a vegan option. Just make sure to adjust the oven time slightly as it may vary based on ingredient swaps!
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! This is one of the joys of baking. Feel free to stir in ½ to 1 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or substitute some of the raisins with chocolate chips for a delicious twist on your Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. The more, the merrier when it comes to adding your favorite mix-ins!
Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies That Delight Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Soften the cold butter in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until it's around 70°F.
- Combine the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until creamy.
- Add the eggs and pure vanilla extract, continue beating until incorporated.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Gradually add to the wet dough while mixing on low speed.
- Fold in the raisins gently until just incorporated.
- Scoop the dough onto a lined baking sheet, placing each ball about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 11-13 minutes until the centers are slightly underbaked but starting to set.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.