Soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced, this homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies recipe delivers a classic treat packed with rolled oats and juicy raisins—ideal for snacking, gifting, or a comforting dessert.
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless favorite that blend the hearty texture of oats with the sweet, chewy goodness of raisins. This easy, no-fuss recipe makes 16 soft, flavorful cookies—perfect for breakfast, tucked into a school lunchbox (my son loves them), or simply enjoyed whenever the craving strikes.
Warmly spiced with cinnamon and made with wholesome ingredients, these cookies offer just the right mix of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
This oatmeal raisin cookies recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of cookies that are:
- Chewy and Soft: The combination of rolled oats and raisins ensures a satisfyingly chewy texture.
- Perfectly Spiced: Ground cinnamon adds a warm, cozy flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, these cookies are perfect for last-minute cravings.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re searching for a healthy-ish dessert or a nostalgic treat, this recipe delivers every time.
The Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
To make 16 delicious oatmeal raisin cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 cups raisins
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 8 Tbsp unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake a batch of chewy oatmeal raisin cookies that will fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
- Step 1: Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp fine sea salt. Set aside.
- Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to beat 8 Tbsp unsalted butter, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup white sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add 1 large egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined.
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Stir in 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats and 2 cups raisins with a wooden spoon or spatula until evenly distributed.
- Step 5: Shape and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll into 16 equal-sized balls (about 3 Tbsp each). Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Slightly flatten each dough ball with your fingers or the back of a spoon. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 6: Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats create the perfect chewy texture. Avoid quick oats—they’re too powdery—and steel-cut oats, which are too coarse.
- Soak Your Raisins: If you want extra plump raisins, soak them in warm water for 10–15 minutes, then pat dry before folding them into the dough. This adds a juicy burst to every bite.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth, well-mixed dough.
- Chill the Dough: While not mandatory, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better and deepen the flavor.
Storing and Freezing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Store: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain softness, place a slice of bread in the container—it helps regulate moisture.
- Freeze: To freeze unbaked dough, shape it into individual balls and place them on a tray to freeze. Once firm, transfer to a zip-top freezer bag and bake directly from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the bake time. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before placing in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Customize Your Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Want to put a spin on this classic recipe? Try these variations:
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace raisins with semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Nutty Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Spiced Oatmeal Cookies: Increase cinnamon to 1 tsp and add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Vegan Option: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats can work in a pinch, but they absorb more moisture, resulting in a softer, less chewy texture. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results.
- How do I keep my cookies soft?
Underbake slightly (remove when centers are still soft) and store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.
- Can I freeze oatmeal raisin cookie dough?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Why did my cookies spread too much?
Cookies may spread if the butter is too warm or if the dough isn’t chilled. Ensure butter is at room temperature (not melted) and chill the dough for 30 minutes if needed.
- Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by 25% without significantly affecting texture. The cookies will be slightly less sweet but still delicious.
Final Bites
I hope this oatmeal raisin cookies recipe becomes your go-to for those moments when you need a quick, wholesome, and comforting treat. Give it a try and let it bring some warmth to your kitchen.
And if you enjoy this one, there’s plenty more where it came from—explore more of our favorite cookie recipes or play around with fun ways to make this classic your own. Happy baking
