Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Raisins
When you think of warm, comforting treats, Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Raisins undoubtedly comes to mind. This delightful recipe combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sumptuous richness of dark chocolate and the sweet chewiness of raisins. It’s more than just a cookie; it’s a cozy hug wrapped in a delectable, golden-brown exterior. The aroma fills your kitchen like a warm blanket, evoking memories of family gatherings and cherished moments. With a step-by-step approach, you’ll find joy in the process, from mixing the ingredients to savoring the final product.
History / Fun Fact
Oatmeal cookies date back to the late 1800s when oats were introduced to America as a nutritious grain option. Originally enjoyed as a health food, their humble beginnings quickly transformed into a beloved dessert. The addition of chocolate and raisins has been a popular variation for many years, providing texture and flavor that pleases the palate. Known for their heartiness and satisfying nature, oatmeal cookies have carried generations of love. These cookies are not just a treat; they bridge connections between generations, as home bakers often share their own twists on the classic recipe throughout time.
Ingredients
The foundation of our Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Raisins is built upon the following ingredients:
- 125g butter, at room temperature: Soft and creamy, this butter creates the perfect base for our cookies, imparting richness and a delectable crumb texture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Dark, moist, and aromatic, this sugar infuses a caramel-like flavor that complements our other ingredients beautifully.
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the texture, giving the cookies a delightful crunch.
- 1 egg: This vital ingredient binds our mixture, ensuring a tender and chewy cookie.
- 1 cup flour: Fine and soft, this flour gives structure to our cookies while remaining light.
- 1 1/2 cups oatmeal: Nutty and wholesome, oats contribute to the chewy texture that we all love.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Warm and fragrant, it elevates our cookie’s flavor, adding a delightful spice.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: A leavening agent that creates lightness in every bite.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors, balancing sweetness with a subtle savory touch.
- 2 tsp cornstarch: This ingredient brings tenderness and a melt-in-your-mouth softness to the cookies.
- 3/4 cup dried black raisins, seedless: Plump and chewy, these raisins add pockets of sweetness that intertwine harmoniously with the oats.
- 1/2 cup walnuts, hand crushed: Nutty, crunchy goodness that provides contrast to the softness of the cookie.
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips: Rich and indulgent, they melt slightly during baking, creating gooey bites of chocolate bliss.
Cooking Time & Tips For Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Raisins
Creating these cookies can take just around 25 minutes from start to finish, depending on whether you opt for quick preparation or a more leisurely approach. If time is of the essence, having your ingredients premeasured can speed up the process. For flavor and texture, a slow preparation allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer taste.
Here are some practical tips for success: Always ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve that fluffy consistency when creaming with the sugars—this step is crucial. Don’t overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added, as this can lead to tougher cookies. For added depth, consider using a mix of chocolate chips for a delightful surprise.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The aroma of warming ingredients signals that something wonderful is coming to life.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. The texture should be airy; this creates the perfect base for your cookie. Add in the egg, letting it blend in harmoniously until fully combined, ensuring there are no streaks of separation.
In a separate bowl, gently whisk together the flour, oatmeal, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. The scent of cinnamon will waft through the air—let it fill your senses with warmth. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated.
Once your batter is ready, fold in the plump black raisins, hand-crushed walnuts, and dark chocolate chips. Picture the chocolate melting into the mixture and the raisins adding a burst of natural sweetness.
Using a tablespoon, drop scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. As you drop each scoop, marvel at how rustic and inviting they look, a promise of the comfort that awaits.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. As the cookies bake, you’ll be enveloped in a cozy aroma that might just stir feelings of nostalgia.
Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Take a moment to relish the anticipation—your soft, chewy oatmeal cookies are almost ready to be enjoyed!
Serving Suggestions & Occasions
These cookies shine brightly at many occasions. Picture a cozy family gathering where they provide a perfect ending after a hearty meal, or perhaps a warm cup of tea among close friends. They are ideal for school lunches, fulfilling snack cravings, or as an on-the-go treat. Elevate the experience by pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt for a delicious twist that tantalizes the palate.
Common Mistakes For Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Raisins
One might think baking cookies is simple, yet there are common pitfalls to avoid. Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies, while underbaking can result in cookies that fall apart too easily. Additionally, don’t forget to allow the cookies to rest after baking; they continue to set while cooling, perfecting that soft and chewy texture. Always ensure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking and to avoid unevenly baked treats.
Healthier Alternatives & Variations
If you’re looking to lighten up the classic recipe, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for added fiber. You can also substitute coconut oil for butter for a vegan option or swap out the chocolate chips with dried cranberries or white chocolate for a different flavor profile. Incorporating seeds like chia or flax can boost the nutritional value while still keeping the cookies delicious.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats provide a heartier texture, quick oats can be used. Expect a slightly different texture—softer and more cookie-like.How should I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight bag.Can I omit the nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to leave out the walnuts if you prefer nut-free cookies or have nut allergies in your family.How do I know when they’re done baking?
The edges should be golden brown while the center remains soft. They will firm up as they cool.Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake the cookies in batches if your baking sheets are limited to avoid overcrowding.What variations can I try?
Consider adding spices like nutmeg or ginger, toasting the walnuts for extra flavor, or even drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent finish.
Conclusively, Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Raisins are not only delicious but also brimming with warmth and nostalgia that every bite brings. Don’t wait too long to whip up this decadent treat, as the experience of baking them is just as delightful as enjoying them! Grab your ingredients and start baking today—you won’t regret it!
Print
Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Raisins
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft and chewy oatmeal cookies combine the wholesome goodness of oats with rich dark chocolate and sweet raisins, offering a delightful and nostalgic treat.
Ingredients
- 125g butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 cup flour
- 1 1/2 cups oatmeal
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 3/4 cup dried black raisins, seedless
- 1/2 cup walnuts, hand crushed
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg and blend until fully combined.
- Whisk together the flour, oatmeal, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Fold in the raisins, walnuts, and chocolate chips.
- Drop scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Ensure butter is at room temperature for the best consistency. Avoid overmixing the dough for soft cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
