Are you craving that warm, gooey, irresistible taste of a classic oatmeal cookie? Forget those store-bought versions! This recipe brings you the secret to recreating the legendary chewiness and flavor of a Mrs. Fields oatmeal cookie, right in your own kitchen. It's easier than you think, and the delicious aroma filling your home while baking is an added bonus. Get ready to bake up a batch of these perfect treats – ideal for snacking, sharing, or even gifting to your loved ones. These are truly the best oatmeal cookies you'll ever taste!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
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Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. A stand mixer makes this step quick and easy, but you can certainly use a hand mixer or even do it by hand if you're feeling ambitious!
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
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Stir in Oats and Chocolate Chips: Stir in the rolled oats and chocolate chips (and nuts, if using). The dough will be thick.
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Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of baking, as ovens can vary.
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Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Oatmeal Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For even chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents spreading.
- Baking Time Variations: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
Variations:
- Add Raisins or Cranberries: For a fruitier twist, add ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries along with the chocolate chips.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of ginger or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
- Different Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like dark chocolate or white chocolate.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (This will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size.)
This recipe provides a delicious and relatively easy path to making incredible homemade oatmeal cookies, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the baking process and the wonderful results! These quick dinner ideas are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings. Homemade cooking has never been so easy and delicious. These are truly among the best recipes you'll ever find.