Classic Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Classic Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Oatmeal cookies are the kind of homemade treat that are simple to make and easy to enjoy. Rolled oats give the cookies a hearty texture, while brown sugar adds a warm, slightly caramel-like flavor. They are great for an afternoon snack, a lunchbox treat, or a simple dessert.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

How to Make Oatmeal Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir until everything is just combined.

Add the rolled oats and mix until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Prepare the Cookies

Scoop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave a little space between each cookie because they will spread as they bake.

For more evenly sized cookies, use a cookie scoop or measure similar amounts of dough for each one.

Bake

Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10–12 minutes.

The edges should be lightly golden while the centers may still look slightly soft. They will continue to set as they cool.

Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies sit for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Adding Extra Ingredients

You can keep these oatmeal cookies simple, or add ingredients depending on what you like.

Some options include:

  • Raisins

  • Chocolate chips

  • Chopped walnuts

  • Chopped pecans

  • Dried cranberries

If adding extra ingredients, stir them into the dough along with the oats.

Tips for Better Cookies

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for a noticeable oat texture. Quick oats can also be used, but they may give the cookies a different texture.

Make sure the butter is softened rather than completely melted. Softened butter helps the dough hold its shape.

Try not to overmix the dough after adding the flour. Mix just until the ingredients come together.

Keep an eye on the cookies during the last few minutes of baking. Taking them out while the centers are still slightly soft can help keep the finished cookies tender.

Serving

Oatmeal cookies can be enjoyed once they have cooled enough to handle. They pair well with milk, coffee, tea, or another favorite drink.

They can also be served as a simple dessert after a meal.

Storing Oatmeal Cookies

Once completely cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature.

For longer storage, baked cookies can be frozen in a suitable freezer-safe container. Allow them to thaw before serving.

Final Notes

These oatmeal cookies are made with everyday baking ingredients and rolled oats. The baking time can vary slightly depending on the size of the cookies and your oven.

For softer cookies, avoid overbaking them. For a slightly firmer texture, allow them to bake for an additional minute or two.