Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something about warm, freshly baked cookies that can instantly transport you to the comforting embrace of home. If you’re a fan of chewy textures combined with a rich chocolatey goodness, then oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are about to become your new favorite treat. They’re not just cookies; they’re a delightful fusion of chewy oats and sweet chocolate chips that hug your taste buds with every bite, making them perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
- This recipe balances the wholesome goodness of oats with the indulgent sweetness of chocolate, satisfying both cravings and dietary motivations.
- They’re versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a snack for a busy day.
- Enjoying these cookies will remind you of lazy afternoons and comforting memories, making every bite a nostalgic experience.
Making Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies at Home
Baking can often feel overwhelming, especially with complicated recipes that seem to require professional skill. However, making oatmeal chocolate chip cookies is an easy, enjoyable process that anyone can master. Follow these carefully crafted steps to create your batch of delicious cookies that will fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
Step 1: Prepping the Oven and Mixing Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This initial step is crucial as it ensures your cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture. While the oven warms up, it’s a great time to gather and combine your dry ingredients.
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This dry mix creates a fluffy base for your cookies, allowing the perfect rise when baked. Set this bowl aside as you move on to the next phase.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, take 1 cup of softened, unsalted butter and combine it with 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the mix, which contributes to the cookies’ light fluffiness.
Once creamed, it’s time to introduce the eggs. Add two large eggs to the sugar-butter mixture one at a time, ensuring each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, which enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Step 3: Blending in Oats for Texture
Next, we add that special ingredient that sets this cookie apart: oats. However, we’ll blend them differently to maintain both texture diversity and rich flavor. Take 2 cups of old-fashioned oats and blend only a portion in a blender until it resembles a fine flour. Mixing this with the creamed ingredients provides a hearty base while leaving some oats whole adds the perfect chewy bite.
Gently fold in the blended oats with the creamed mixture. It’s important to be delicate during this process so that the mixture remains aerated.
Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to gradually incorporate your previously set aside dry ingredients into the mixture. Take it slow, folding the flour mixture into the wet ingredients gradually until everything is just combined. Be cautious not to overmix as this can create tough cookies.
Finally, fold in the remaining whole oats and 1 cup of chocolate chips. These beauties will melt slightly while baking, creating gooey pockets of chocolate in every cookie.
Step 5: Forming the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spaced about two inches apart to allow for spreading. The amount of dough used will dictate the size of your cookies, so feel free to adjust according to your preference.
Step 6: Baking Time
Slide the trays into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Watch closely until the edges are just lightly golden, while the centers may appear slightly under-baked. This slight under-baking will ensure that your cookies stay chewy.
When done, remove the trays and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This step allows the cookies to set up perfectly and makes them easier to move without breaking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Blend some of the oats in a blender until it’s a fine flour, then mix in with the creamed mixture.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, then fold in the remaining whole oats and chocolate chips.
- Drop by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Storing Leftover Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Keeping your cookies fresh means enjoying their deliciousness longer. Here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for 3–4 days at room temperature. This keeps them fresh and chewy.
- Refrigerate: If you want to prolong their life, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be aware that they will firm up a bit when cold, so allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
- Freeze: For extended storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Best Ways to Serve Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are a delightful treat on their own, but there are many ways to elevate your serving game:
- Milk Pairing: Enjoy your cookies with a glass of cold milk. The creamy texture and flavor combo enhances the chocolate’s richness.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create a scrumptious ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite flavor—vanilla, chocolate, or even mint chip—and let the deliciousness unfold.
- Presentation Ideas: Arrange your cookies on a decorative plate, sprinkle a little sea salt on top, or garnish with fresh mint leaves to create an appealing centerpiece for a gathering.
- With Coffee or Tea: Pair your cookies with a warm beverage for a cozy snack experience. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with dark roast coffee or herbal teas.
Tips to Make Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature will enhance the creaminess and mixability of your dough.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: For an even chewier texture, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with Chips: Go beyond standard chocolate chips; try butterscotch, peanut butter, or dark chocolate for exciting flavor twists!
Customizations and Substitutions
Got dietary preferences or ingredients on hand that you want to use? Here are a couple of ideas:
- Nutty Crunch: If you like a crunch, add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Dairy-Free Adjustment: Swap out the butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips to suit your dietary needs.
FAQs about Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Q: Can I make this dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The cookie dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.
Q: Why are my cookies spreading too much?
A: If the dough is too warm or you’re using melted butter, cookies may spread excessively. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and consider chilling the dough.
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
A: While quick oats will work in a pinch, they may alter the desired texture, resulting in a softer cookie. For the best chewyness, stick to old-fashioned oats when possible.
Baking oatmeal chocolate chip cookies can be a wonderfully satisfying experience, filled with the magic of simple ingredients that transform into a soft, chewy, and wonderfully sweet treat. Perfect for sharing, or even keeping all to yourself, they embody warmth, comfort, and happiness, making every moment spent enjoying them special. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in the pure joy of homemade cookies!
Print
Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, chewy oatmeal cookies loaded with rich chocolate chips, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Blend some of the oats in a blender until it’s a fine flour, then mix in with the creamed mixture.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, then fold in the remaining whole oats and chocolate chips.
- Drop by tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.