Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe: A Deliciously Chewy Treat for All Ages

Quaker oatmeal cookies have been a beloved treat for generations, offering a delightful combination of hearty oats, sweet cinnamon, and rich butter. These cookies are easy to make, filling, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a quick afternoon snack. Quaker oats, known for their quality and texture, are the key ingredient that makes these cookies soft yet chewy, with a slight crisp on the edges. They’ve become a staple in many households due to their comforting flavor and versatility. Whether you enjoy them plain or with added chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts, Quaker oatmeal cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking soda

  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 3 cups Quaker old-fashioned oats

  • 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)

Possible Substitutions:

  • Butter: Use margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

  • Brown sugar: Replace with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetener.

  • Eggs: Substitute with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) for a vegan option.

  • Oats: Use gluten-free oats if you’re following a gluten-free diet.

  • Raisins/Chocolate chips: Add nuts, dried cranberries, or any mix-ins you prefer.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

  2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).

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

  4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

  5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined.

  6. Fold in oats: Stir in the oats, and if desired, fold in raisins or chocolate chips.

  7. Scoop dough: Use a tablespoon or a cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

  8. Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers should still be soft.

  9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques

  • Room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve the best texture.

  • Don’t overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined.

  • Chill the dough: If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This will help prevent spreading.

  • Use a cookie scoop: This ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Variations and Customizations

  • Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats.

  • Vegan: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the eggs with a flaxseed meal egg.

  • Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins. Try chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or substitute raisins with dried cranberries or apricots.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a warm drink: Pair your cookies with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea for a cozy treat.

  • Garnish: Lightly dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish, or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

  • Side dishes: These cookies are perfect with a fruit salad or a bowl of vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximately)

  • Calories: 120

  • Protein: 2g

  • Carbs: 16g

  • Fat: 6g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 9g

Note: Nutritional information is based on standard ingredients and may vary with substitutions or additions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

    • Chill the dough before baking, and avoid using too much butter.

  2. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

    • Yes! Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

  3. How do I store my oatmeal cookies?

    • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

  4. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

    • Old-fashioned oats are recommended for the best texture, but quick oats can be used as a substitute if necessary.

Closing Thoughts

Quaker oatmeal cookies are a timeless classic that will never go out of style. The combination of oats and warm spices makes them the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family event, a bake sale, or just for yourself, this recipe guarantees delicious results. Experiment with your favorite add-ins or make them your own! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family—you’ll be the hero of the kitchen.