Perfectly Dense and Chewy Oatmeal Cookie Recipe for Baking Enthusiasts

Intro

If you're looking for an oaty, chewy, and dense cookie that holds its shape beautifully, then this oatmeal cookie recipe is precisely what you need. This guide will take you through a detailed process to ensure that your cookies turn out perfect every time. From the ingredients to the baking process, we've got you covered.

Ingredients You Need

3/4 cup (170g) softened butter 3/4 cup (115g) packed brown sugar 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/4 cup (55g) honey 2 large eggs, room temperature 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp ground cinnamon 3 cups (475g) rolled oats 1/2 cup (45g) raisins 1/2 cup (85g) milk chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Creaming the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming 3/4 cup of salted butter at room temperature and 3/4 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of honey. Beat until fully mixed, then add 2 large eggs, one at a time, until the dough is smooth and well incorporated.

2. Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly.

3. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, beating until the batter is smooth and well incorporated.

4. Adding Oats, Raisins, and Chocolate Chips

Using a mixer on low speed or a large spoon, fold the 3 cups of rolled oats into the cookie batter. Next, mix in the 1/2 cup of raisins and 1/2 cup of milk chocolate chips until well distributed.

5. Chilling the Dough

Once assembled, wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight. This chilling period helps the dough set and makes it easier to form into uniform balls.

6. Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spoon the chilled dough and shape it into balls. Place the balls 2 inches apart to ensure they have enough space to spread and achieve the desired shape.

Bake for about 12 minutes, or until the cookies are light brown but still chewy. Be careful not to over-bake, as this can result in a tougher cookie.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period helps the cookies firm up and develop their best texture.

Expert Tip

My personal favorite comes from inside the lid of the Quaker Oats container. It's dense yet still chewy, and it allows for easy additions like raisins or chocolate chips!

Conclusion

These perfectly dense and chewy oatmeal cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With these detailed steps, you can craft a batch that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Happy baking!