The Best Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. These The Best Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect blend of chewy oats, rich chocolatey goodness, and a hint of warmth from cinnamon. Whether you’re a cookie connoisseur or just someone looking to indulge in a sweet treat, this recipe will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why This The Best Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies Stands Out

What makes these cookies truly special is their delightful texture. The old-fashioned rolled oats provide a hearty chewiness, while the combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and warm cinnamon elevates the flavor to a whole new level. Unlike typical chocolate chip cookies, the oats add a wholesome quality, making these a perfect snack for any time of day. Plus, they come together in just one bowl, making the cleanup a breeze!

What You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned whole rolled oats, not instant or quick cook
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ to 1 teaspoon cinnamon, added to taste
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt, optional and to taste
• 1 heaping cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup raisins or nuts, optional and to taste

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start baking, make sure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing bowl – A large bowl for combining your ingredients.
• Whisk or electric mixer – To beat together the wet ingredients.
• Spatula – For folding in the dry ingredients and chocolate chips.
• Baking sheet – A flat surface for baking your cookies.
• Parchment paper – To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon – For portioning your dough evenly.

The Best Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies — Do This Next

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and equipment, it’s time to get baking. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use your whisk or electric mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the large egg and add the vanilla extract. Mix well until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Oats and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the oats, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and, if you like, the raisins or nuts. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep that delightful texture.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers might look slightly underbaked, but they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked The Best Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies with a glass of cold milk or your favorite beverage!

Better Choices & Swaps

If you’re looking to make some adjustments or substitutions, consider the following options:

• For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative.
• Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition.
• Replace raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different sweetness.

Problems & Prevention

Even the best bakers encounter challenges. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:

• Cookies Spread Too Much: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help.
• Cookies Are Too Dry: Make sure not to over-measure your flour. Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Too Chewy: If you prefer a crunchier cookie, bake them a minute or two longer, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Burnt Bottoms: If your oven tends to run hot, consider baking on the middle rack and using parchment paper to protect the bottoms.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These cookies are perfect for making ahead! Here’s how you can store them:

• Cookie Dough: Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, you can bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.

Quick Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe, as quick oats will result in a different texture and may become mushy.

How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week or in the freezer for up to three months.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to include nuts, coconut flakes, or even other types of chocolate chips for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

What should I do if my dough is too wet?

If your dough seems too wet, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired consistency.

Once you’ve enjoyed these delightful cookies, consider trying your hand at these equally delicious recipes:

Wrap-Up

Baking is all about creativity, love, and a little bit of experimentation. These The Best Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a way to bring joy into your home. With their chewy texture and rich flavors, they’re bound to be a hit with family and friends alike. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor each bite of warmth and sweetness. Happy baking!