Name: Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 large egg (room temperature); ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup light brown sugar (packed); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups whole rolled old-fashioned oats (not quick cook); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (or to taste); ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt (optional and to taste); ¾ cup bread flour (or 1 cup minus two tablespoons); 1 cup raisins

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The first time I baked Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, I was just a teenager, trying to impress my friends with my newfound baking skills. I remember being so nervous as I gathered the ingredients, meticulously measuring out each one to ensure they turned out just right. The scent of the cookies wafting through the kitchen quickly transformed my anxious energy into pure excitement. As they baked, I couldn’t help but steal a few bites of the dough—my favorite part of the whole process! When I finally took them out of the oven, the gooey, warm cookies were a hit. My friends devoured them in no time, and I felt a sense of pride knowing I had created something so delicious. Now, I often return to this recipe, as it brings back fond memories and is a surefire way to brighten anyone’s day.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Apart

They’re a Classic Favorite

Who doesn’t love a good oatmeal raisin cookie? It’s a timeless treat that brings a sense of nostalgia. Every bite of these Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies transports you back to simpler times, making them perfect for all ages.

Texture Matters

These cookies are not just ordinary; they have the perfect combination of chewiness and thickness. The use of bread flour gives them that ideal texture, ensuring they stay soft while still having a slight bite.

Loaded with Goodness

Filled with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and raisins, these cookies strike the right balance between indulgent and nutritious. You can feel good about serving them to your family!

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a cozy night in, a family gathering, or a bake sale, these cookies fit right in. They’re versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Make-Ahead Delight

One of the best parts of this recipe is that the dough can be made in advance and stored. This means you can have fresh cookies ready whenever the craving hits!

Easy to Customize

While the classic version is delightful, you can easily customize these cookies. Add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!

What You Need for Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

When it comes to baking, the quality and type of ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For these Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect cookie experience. From the chewy oats to the sweet raisins, these ingredients work hand in hand to deliver a cookie that’s not only satisfying but also comforting.

1 large egg, room temperature – This binds the ingredients, giving the cookie structure.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and a delightful buttery flavor.
1 cup light brown sugar, packed – Provides sweetness and moisture, contributing to that chewy texture.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
1 ½ cups whole rolled old-fashioned oats, not quick cook – The star of the cookie, providing texture and heartiness.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, or to taste – Adds warmth and spice to every bite.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly for that perfect thickness.
¼ teaspoon salt, optional and to taste – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons bread flour, or 1 cup minus two tablespoons – The key to achieving that thick, chewy cookie.
1 cup raisins – Sweet, chewy additions that make these cookies irresistible.

How to Assemble Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Making Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with warm aromas. Follow along as we blend, chill, and bake these cookies to perfection.

Begin by preparing your baking area. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat. This ensures your cookies won’t stick.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat these ingredients together on medium-high speed until they are light and fluffy. This should take around 4 to 5 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.
Next, add in the oats, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and optional salt to the mixture. Beat these ingredients on low speed until just combined, about 1 minute. Don’t overmix at this stage; we want to maintain that chewy texture.
Now, it’s time to add the bread flour. Slowly pour it into the bowl and beat on low speed until just incorporated, around 30 seconds. The dough will be thick, which is exactly what we want for these cookies.
Finally, add in the raisins and mix for a few seconds to combine. This will distribute the raisins throughout the dough.
Once your dough is ready, transfer it to an airtight container or cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours, or up to 5 days. This chilling process is crucial, as it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
After the chilling period, scoop the dough using a medium-sized cookie scoop, which is about two heaping tablespoons or around 1.50 to 1.60 ounces by weight. Form mounds and place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Aim for a maximum of 8 per sheet to give them room to spread.
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be set while the tops remain slightly undercooked. This ensures a soft and chewy center.
Once they are out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time allows them to firm up.

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving that thick and chewy texture. Do not skip this step!
The choice of flour matters; using bread flour helps create a denser cookie that holds its shape better than all-purpose flour.
For optimal results, bake only as many cookies as you want to enjoy right away. You can freeze the remaining dough for future cravings.
If you prefer a crunchier cookie, extend the baking time slightly but watch closely to avoid overbaking.

Helpful Hints

Baking is both an art and a science, and having a few helpful hints can make all the difference. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Storage: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their softness.
Freezing: You can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Ensure they are stored in a single layer to prevent sticking.
Unbaked dough storage: If you have extra dough, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea, perfect for an afternoon treat.
Customizing: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or other dried fruits to the dough for added flavor and texture.

Side Dish Ideas for Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Deciding how to serve your freshly baked Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies can enhance the overall experience. Here are some ideas to make the most of this delightful treat:

Afternoon Snack: Enjoy these cookies with a refreshing glass of cold milk or your favorite herbal tea for a cozy afternoon break.
Picnic Treat: Pack these cookies for your next picnic. They travel well and are sure to please both kids and adults.
Lunchbox Surprise: Slip a couple in your child’s lunchbox for a sweet surprise that will brighten their school day.
Holiday Dessert: Serve these cookies during holidays or family gatherings, as they always evoke warm memories and create a festive atmosphere.
Seasonal Pairing: In the fall, enhance the experience by serving warm cookies alongside spiced cider or pumpkin-flavored beverages.

FAQ

The chewiness in Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies comes primarily from the use of bread flour, which has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour. This helps create a denser cookie that maintains its shape and texture. Additionally, chilling the dough before baking allows the cookies to set properly, enhancing their chewy consistency. So, by following these steps, you ensure a cookie that’s delightfully chewy!

While you can technically use quick oats in a pinch, I strongly recommend using whole rolled old-fashioned oats for Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Old-fashioned oats provide better texture and chewiness compared to quick oats, which can lead to a different consistency in your cookies. If you want those thick and chewy results, stick with the rolled oats!

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies can last up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for a longer time, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped or stored in a single layer to prevent sticking. This way, you can always have a delicious treat ready when the craving hits!

Absolutely! One of the best things about Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies is their versatility. You can easily add chocolate chips, nuts, or even different dried fruits to the dough. Just remember to balance the extra ingredients with the rest of the recipe, so the texture remains consistent. Feel free to get creative and make the recipe your own!

Conclusion

The Thick and Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are truly a timeless classic that resonates with anyone who takes a bite. Their irresistible chewiness and rich flavors make them the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon or a gathering with friends. Plus, the joy of baking and sharing these cookies adds a special touch to any moment. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’re sure to create lasting memories in your kitchen!