Grandma’s Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Name: Grandma's Chewy Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup old-fashioned oats; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

When nostalgia calls, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm batch of Grandma’s chewy oatmeal cookies. There’s a magic in the way these cookies can evoke sweet memories of family gatherings and the kind of laughter that fills the air with joy. With their chewy texture and delightful aroma that envelops your kitchen, these cookies are not just a treat; they’re a hug in cookie form, perfect for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

These cookies boast a delightful blend of chewy oats, warm spices, and sweetness that’s simply irresistible.
Perfect for sharing or savoring alone, they bring comfort and joy with each bite.

Grandma’s chewy oatmeal cookies are a timeless favorite that can brighten anyone’s day—or simply satisfy your sweet tooth.

How to Make Grandma’s Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Baking cookies can be an enjoyable experience filled with delightful scents and the joy of sharing. With this step-by-step guide, making Grandma’s chewy oatmeal cookies will feel like a breeze, even if you’re a novice in the kitchen.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the process, make sure you have everything you need. These are the key ingredients you’ll want to have on hand:

1 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly, resulting in that perfect chewy texture we all love.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a mixer or your own two hands, cream them together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This is a crucial step—properly creaming the butter and sugars adds air and helps create that delightful chewiness.

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla until the mixture is well combined. The vanilla extract not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely aroma.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step allows for even distribution of the baking soda and spices, ensuring every cookie is perfectly flavored.

Step 5: Blend the Two Mixtures

Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. It’s best not to rush this process; gently fold them together until just combined to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, and we want our oatmeal cookies to be soft and chewy.

Step 6: Add the Oats

Now for the star of the show—stir in the old-fashioned oats until they are just mixed in. These oats are what give the cookies their signature chewy texture.

Step 7: Prepare to Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each scoop — about 2 inches apart, as these cookies will spread a little while baking.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; the key to chewy cookies is taking them out when they’re slightly underbaked.

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly while still being soft on the inside. Enjoy your homemade chewy oatmeal cookies!

Storage Tips for Grandma’s Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh and delicious for as long as possible, store them using the following guidelines:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 3-5 days at room temperature.
Refrigerate: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but the texture may change slightly.
Freezing: For optimal freshness, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Make sure to allow the cookies to cool completely before storing to prevent any condensation that might make them soggy.

Best Ways to Serve Grandma’s Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Serving Grandma’s chewy oatmeal cookies can be as delightful as baking them. Here are some fun ideas to enhance your cookie experience:

With Milk: There’s something about the classic pairing of warm cookies and a tall glass of milk that can’t be beaten.
Ice Cream Sandwich: Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a unique treat that will surely impress family and friends.
Warm and Fresh: Serve straight from the oven for the ultimate gooey experience. Pair them with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Gift Them: Consider wrapping your cookies in pretty boxes or tins, making them a lovely gift for friends, neighbors, or teachers during the holidays.

Tips to Make Grandma’s Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Allow ingredients to reach room temperature for the best mixing outcomes, especially the butter and egg.
For an extra chew, add an additional 1/4 cup of oats.
If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
Don’t forget to switch up your spices! A dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of coconut can add unique flavors.
If you’re considering a sweeter option, a sprinkling of chocolate chips can transform these into a sweeter treat.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re feeling adventurous or want to customize your oatmeal cookie experience, consider these delicious variations:

Chocolate Chip Addition: If you crave a bit of sweetness, fold in a cup of chocolate chips into the dough. This little change makes for a delightful chocolatey twist.
Fruit and Nut Medley: Consider replacing some oats with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins and nuts. The combination will add great texture and flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer them directly from the freezer to the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Q: How do I keep the cookies soft?
A: The key to keeping oatmeal cookies soft is to not overbake them. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Also, storing them in an airtight container will help maintain their moisture.

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A: While you can, old-fashioned oats lend a chewier texture that is ideal for these cookies. If you use quick oats, the cookies may turn out softer, but they will be just as delicious!

With each bite of Grandma’s chewy oatmeal cookies, you invoke memories of simpler times—whether that’s plopping down on the couch with a cookie after school or sitting around the table as a family, sharing stories and laughter. Armed with this recipe, you can easily recreate that magic in your own home. So gather everyone around, bake a batch, and enjoy the scrumptious nostalgia these cookies bring!

Grandma’s Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Grandma’s Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Why Make This Recipe