These soft and chewy oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless treat, packed with sweet raisins, warm spices, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for snack time or as a dessert, they’re the comforting, delicious cookies everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft & Chewy: The texture of these cookies is wonderfully soft and chewy, thanks to the perfect balance of butter and oats.
Classic Comfort: The combination of cinnamon, raisins, and oats is an all-time favorite that brings warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have fresh cookies ready in no time.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup raisins
Optional: 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Add Oats & Raisins: Stir in the rolled oats, raisins, and optional nuts by hand using a spatula or wooden spoon.
Shape the Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the Cookies: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked (they will firm up as they cool). Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24–30 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for a different spice note.
Raisins: You can swap raisins for dried cranberries or even chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Freeze cookie dough for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for the ideal chewy texture, but quick oats can be used as a substitute if needed.

2. How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free oatmeal cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

3. Can I add chocolate chips to these cookies?

Yes, feel free to add chocolate chips or swap them with raisins for a delicious variation.

4. How do I make the cookies crispier?

For a crisper texture, bake the cookies a minute or two longer and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few extra minutes.

5. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before baking or freeze it for later use.

6. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, though it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

7. Why are my cookies too flat?

If your cookies are too flat, it could be due to over-softened butter or not enough flour. Try chilling the dough before baking.

8. Can I use other dried fruits instead of raisins?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries, currants, or even chopped dried apricots can be used as a substitute for raisins.

9. Can I freeze the baked cookies?

Yes, baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag.

10. How do I make the cookies chewier?

Make sure to use the right amount of butter and do not overbake the cookies. Slightly underbaked cookies will be chewier once they cool.

Conclusion

These oatmeal raisin cookies are a classic, comforting treat that everyone will love. Soft, chewy, and packed with delicious flavors, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the family or sharing with friends, these cookies are sure to satisfy every sweet tooth!