Thick and Chewy, Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Delicious Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Recipe - Thick and Chewy

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will reveal the secret to oatmeal raisin cookies that are not only thick and chewy but also incredibly delicious. These treats are perfect for a lazy afternoon or to impress friends and family during a gathering.

A Brief Story about Cookies

Oatmeal cookies have a long history, often associated with childhood comfort moments. Oats are not only an excellent source of nutrients but also a versatile ingredient that can transform a simple recipe into a true culinary masterpiece. These cookies are ideal for enjoying with a warm tea or a glass of milk and are particularly appreciated by those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional desserts.

Preparation and Baking Time:

- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Number of Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

Necessary Ingredients:

- 0.5 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1.5 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 0.75 cups bread flour (for a thick and chewy texture)
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon (adjust to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon salt (optional but recommended)
- 1 cup raisins

Step-by-step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: Start by preparing all your ingredients. In a large bowl, use a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. Add the butter, egg, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat the ingredients on medium-high speed for 4-5 minutes until the mixture is very light and fluffy.

2. Adding Dry Ingredients: Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is well incorporated. Add the oats, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed for about 1 minute.

3. Incorporating the Flour: Add the bread flour and mix for 30 seconds. It’s important to use bread flour to achieve that thick and chewy texture. If you use all-purpose flour, the cookies will be less dense.

4. Raisins: Now it’s time to add the raisins. Continue mixing until they are evenly incorporated into the dough.

5. Chilling the Dough: It’s essential to let the dough chill. Transfer it to an airtight container or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but it can be stored for up to 5 days. This step will prevent the cookies from spreading during baking.

6. Preparing to Bake: Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare a baking sheet using a silicone mat, parchment paper, or cooking spray, and set it aside.

7. Shaping the Cookies: Use an ice cream scoop or a 5 cm cookie scoop to form the dough into small mounds. Arrange them on the baking sheet, leaving 5 cm of space between each to allow for expansion.

8. Baking: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be slightly golden, and the center should be a little underbaked, as they will firm up as they cool. If you prefer crunchier cookies, you can bake them for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be careful not to burn them.

9. Cooling: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This step is crucial to prevent them from crumbling.

10. Storing and Serving: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Also, unbaked dough can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, so you can bake only as many cookies as you want!

Nutritional Benefits

Oatmeal raisin cookies are not only delicious but also nutritious! Oats are an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full. Raisins add a boost of antioxidants and vitamins, while brown sugar provides a rich flavor with a lower glycemic index compared to white sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace raisins with something else?
- Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate, nuts, or even dried fruits to vary the recipe.

2. Why is it important to chill the dough?
- Chilling helps firm up the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading and ensuring they hold their shape.

3. Can I use whole wheat flour?
- Yes, but keep in mind that the texture will be different, and the cookies will be denser.

4. How can I make the cookies less sweet?
- You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or opt for a natural sugar substitute.

Serving Suggestion

These cookies are perfect to be served with a warm tea or a glass of cold milk. You can also sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to get cooking! Every bite of these oatmeal raisin cookies will bring an explosion of flavors and textures that will make you come back to this recipe again and again. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don’t forget to share these treats with your loved ones!