Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Nothing says home quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft and chewy oatmeal chocolate chip cookie, each bite delivering a perfect balance of sweet chocolate and hearty oats. This recipe is designed to evoke those feelings of nostalgia, making it a beloved classic that appeals to both seasoned bakers and kitchen newbies alike.
Why Make This Recipe
- You’ll create a delightful treat that combines health and indulgence.
- These cookies are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for any occasion.
There’s something truly special about the combination of oatmeal and chocolate. Each bite of these cookies not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a sense of comfort and warmth—exactly what you need during chilly evenings or family gatherings. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s create something magic in your kitchen!
Simple Way to Prepare Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
Creating the perfect soft and chewy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies might seem like a daunting task, but with this straightforward recipe, you’ll be a pro in no time. Follow these steps to achieve cookie perfection:
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions
Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.
Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, ensuring to scrape down the sides of the bowl for an even mix.
Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to over-mix.
Incorporate oats and chocolate: Gently fold in the oats and chocolate chips (and nuts, if using) with a spatula. This step adds texture and flavor to every bite.
Scoop the dough: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The center may look slightly underbaked, but don’t worry; they will set while cooling.
Cool down: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storing Leftover Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
To ensure your cookies maintain their soft and chewy texture, proper storage is critical. Follow these guidelines:
- Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Best Ways to Serve Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
When serving these delightful cookies, consider pairing them with a few favorites:
- Classic Milk: A tall glass of cold milk never goes out of style. Dip your cookie in for a nostalgic touch.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Take your dessert to the next level by creating ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies—you’ll be in cookie heaven.
- Coffee Break: Enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
If you’re looking for a more festive touch, consider arranging them on a decorative platter with some seasonal fruits or nuts for a beautiful dessert display.
Tips to Make Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Measure accurately: Make sure to measure your flour correctly—too much can lead to dry cookies.
- Don’t over-bake: To keep the soft texture, take them out of the oven while they still look slightly underdone. They will firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in dried fruit, or coconut, or even try different types of chocolate for a unique twist.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re feeling adventurous or need to accommodate dietary restrictions, consider these variations:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure other ingredients like oats are certified gluten-free too.
- Healthier Options: For a healthier version, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You can also reduce the sugar by half for a less sweet cookie without compromising the texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Just let the dough warm slightly at room temperature before scooping and baking.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze individual scoops of dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop them onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Q: What’s the best way to keep these cookies soft?
- Store them in an airtight container.
- Add a slice of bread to the container; it helps maintain moisture.
- Avoid over-baking to ensure the cookies remain chewy.
Additional Tips and Tricks for Cookie Perfection
Besides the basic recipe, here are some more tips to elevate your cookie-making game:
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature ensures they incorporate smoothly, leading to a better texture.
Experiment with Flavors: You can enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. It gives an unexpected twist to the traditional cookie taste.
Chill Your Dough: After mixing, allow your dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, enhancing the chewy texture.
Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
Regular Oven Thermometer: Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy. A simple thermometer can help ensure your cookies bake perfectly every time.
By following these straightforward guidelines, you can master the art of making soft and chewy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies that become a staple in your household. Whether you’re making a batch for a gathering or treating yourself, each cookie will bring a comforting smile with every bite.
Now that you have all the tools necessary for success, roll up your sleeves and get baking! The delightful aroma and taste of these cookies will have your family and friends clamoring for more. Enjoy the process, share your creations, and savor each delicious moment. Happy baking!
Print
Soft and Chewy 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 and chewy oatmeal chocolate chip cookies that balance sweet chocolate with hearty oats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until no flour streaks remain.
- Gently fold in oats and chocolate chips (and nuts, if using) with a spatula.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden; centers may look slightly underbaked.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Measure flour accurately and avoid over-baking to maintain softness. Consider adding chocolate-covered nuts for extra flavor.