The aroma of cinnamon and warm oats wafting from the oven—that’s the magic of baking a batch of classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. It’s a scent that often brings back a flood of memories, perhaps of after-school treats laid out on the counter, or a shared baking session with a grandparent, their hands expertly guiding yours.
These cookies aren’t just a sweet treat; they are a bite of comfort, a tradition passed down through generations. This Original Quaker Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe taps into that very essence. It’s beloved for its delightfully chewy texture, the subtle sweetness of raisins, and the hearty goodness of oats, creating a perfectly balanced cookie that’s satisfying in every way.
Whether you’re looking for a reliable bake sale star, a comforting snack to share with family, or simply a way to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma on a quiet afternoon, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the answer. This particular recipe, with its straightforward approach and classic taste, has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s simple enough for novice bakers yet delivers a result that will impress even the most seasoned cookie connoisseurs. The beauty of these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies lies in their consistent deliciousness, a comforting constant in an ever-changing world.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just any recipe; it’s a tried-and-true classic that consistently delivers delightful results. Here’s why you’ll find yourself coming back to these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies again and again:
- Unbeatable Texture: Get ready for that perfect chewiness, a hallmark of fantastic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, thanks to the rolled oats and balanced moisture.
- Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this recipe focuses on straightforward, quality ingredients that shine.
- Quick to Prepare: From mixing bowl to cooling rack, these cookies come together relatively quickly, making them perfect for a spontaneous baking session.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The warm spice of cinnamon, the sweetness of raisins, and the heartiness of oats create a universally loved flavor profile.
- Perfectly Shareable: This recipe yields a generous batch, ideal for sharing with family, friends, neighbors, or for packing into lunchboxes.
This recipe is especially wonderful for families looking for a kid-friendly baking project, home bakers who appreciate classic recipes, and anyone who loves a comforting, chewy cookie.
Ingredients for Original Quaker Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe
Core Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, melted then cooled (salted or unsalted): Using melted butter contributes to a chewier cookie. If using unsalted butter, you might want to slightly increase the added salt. Letting it cool prevents it from scrambling the eggs.
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark), packed: Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich, molasses flavor. Dark brown sugar will yield a deeper flavor and slightly darker cookie.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with crisp edges.
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature: Room temperature eggs incorporate more easily into the batter, leading to a better texture.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors in the cookies.
- 1 and ½ cup all-purpose flour, sifted then measured: Sifting the flour before measuring ensures accuracy and a lighter texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and spread.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The classic warm spice in Oatmeal Raisin Cookies.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, uncooked: These are key for the characteristic chewy texture and hearty oat flavor. Do not use instant or steel-cut oats.
- 1 cup raisins: Plump, sweet raisins are a classic inclusion.
Substitutions and Tips
- Butter: If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but consider reducing the added salt by 1/4 teaspoon.
- Raisins: Not a raisin fan? Swap them for chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. For an extra touch, try soaking your raisins in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then draining them thoroughly before adding to the batter; this makes them extra plump.
- Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice (about 1/4 teaspoon) along with the cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Best Type of Oats to Use
For this Original Quaker Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe, old-fashioned rolled oats are non-negotiable for achieving that signature chewy texture and robust oat flavor. These oats are whole oat groats that have been steamed and then rolled flat. This process creates flakes that maintain their integrity during baking, providing structure and that desirable chew.
- Instant Oats: These are rolled thinner and cut finer than old-fashioned oats. While they cook quickly for oatmeal, they will result in a pastier, less textured cookie. Avoid them for this recipe.
- Steel-Cut Oats: These are oat groats that have been chopped into pieces, not rolled. They have a very firm texture and require longer cooking times, making them unsuitable for these cookies as they won’t soften enough.
Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best Oatmeal Raisin Cookies every time!
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Must-Have Tools
- Large mixing bowls (at least two)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking sheets (at least two)
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats (highly recommended for easy cleanup and even baking)
- Wire cooling rack
Nice-to-Have Extras
- Electric Mixer (stand or handheld): While not essential, it can make creaming the butter and sugars easier and faster.
- Cookie scoop: For uniform-sized cookies, which helps them bake evenly. A #40 scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons) is a good size.
- Sifter: For aerating the flour.
How to Make Original Quaker Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe
Follow these steps for perfectly chewy and delicious Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and helps with even browning. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set this aside. This step of combining dry ingredients first ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk them together until well combined and smooth. You should see the mixture lighten slightly. Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the pure vanilla extract. Ensure the butter is truly cooled to avoid cooking the eggs.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredient mixture, mixing on low speed if using an electric mixer, or by hand with a spatula, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough at this stage, as it can lead to tougher cookies. Mix only until you no longer see streaks of flour.
Step 4: Add Oats and Raisins
Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats and raisins using a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough. The dough will be thick and hearty. You’ll know it’s ready when the oats and raisins are well incorporated, and the dough pulls away slightly from the sides of the bowl.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. A cookie scoop works wonderfully here for uniform size. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The exact time will depend on your oven and the size of your cookies. For chewier cookies, err on the side of slightly underbaking; they will continue to cook a bit on the hot pan.
Step 6: Cool the Cookies
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This brief cooling period on the pan helps them set up properly. Enjoy your delicious homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies!
Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies is easy with these tips:
- Use Room Temperature Eggs: This is a small step that makes a big difference in how well the eggs incorporate into the batter, resulting in a smoother, more uniform dough.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and then level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents packing too much flour, which can make cookies dry and tough.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the flour, mix only until it’s just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten too much, leading to less tender cookies.
- Cool Melted Butter Properly: Ensure your melted butter has cooled sufficiently before mixing it with the sugars and especially before adding the eggs. Hot butter can affect the texture and potentially cook the eggs.
- Consider Chilling the Dough (Optional): While this recipe works great without chilling, if your kitchen is very warm or you want a slightly thicker cookie with less spread, chilling the dough for 30 minutes to an hour can be beneficial.
How to Store Original Quaker Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe
Room Temperature
Store your Oatmeal Raisin Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help keep them soft.
In the Refrigerator
While you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week, they may become a bit harder. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying, or warm them briefly in the microwave (5-10 seconds).
Freezing Tips
These Oatmeal Raisin Cookies freeze beautifully!
- Baked Cookies: Once completely cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes.
- Cookie Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough. Scoop individual balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time. No need to thaw before baking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats for these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies?
It’s highly recommended to use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture in these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Quick oats are thinner and more processed, which can result in a cookie that is less chewy and has a pastier texture.
Why are my Oatmeal Raisin Cookies spreading too much?
Several factors can cause cookies to spread too much: butter that was too warm or fully melted and hot, using too much sugar, not enough flour, or a very warm kitchen. Ensure your melted butter is cooled, and always measure your ingredients accurately. Chilling the dough before baking can also help reduce spread.
How do I make my Oatmeal Raisin Cookies extra chewy?
For extra chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, make sure you’re using old-fashioned rolled oats and packed brown sugar, as both contribute to chewiness. Avoid overbaking the cookies; pull them from the oven when the edges are set and lightly golden, but the centers still look a little soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool on the pan.
Can I add nuts to this Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans are a fantastic addition to Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Add about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of chopped nuts along with the raisins and oats in Step 4.
My cookies turned out hard. What went wrong?
Hard cookies can be a result of overbaking, using too much flour, or not enough fat/moisture. Ensure you’re measuring flour correctly (spoon and level), don’t overbake, and use the specified amount of butter and brown sugar for optimal moisture and chewiness.
Conclusion
This Original Quaker Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a pathway to creating warm memories and delicious, comforting treats. The delightful chewiness and classic flavor profile make these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies a timeless favorite for good reason. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventures, this recipe provides a reliable and rewarding experience, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes truly are the best. Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible scent of freshly baked Oatmeal Raisin Cookies!
