Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe

Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are the classic homemade treat that never goes out of style—each bite is brimming with comforting cinnamon, bursts of plump raisins, and the hearty texture of old-fashioned oats. The golden, slightly crisp edges give way to irresistibly soft centers, making these cookies absolutely unforgettable. They’re just the thing for an after-school snack, a cozy dessert, or a nostalgic treat to share with friends and family.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies is blissfully simple, and part of their magic comes from using everyday pantry staples. Each ingredient has a special mission: lending texture, flavor, or that signature chew—so don’t skip a thing! Here’s what you’ll need for cookie perfection:

• Butter (unsalted, softened): Provides richness and helps create those tender, chewy centers that everyone loves.
• Brown sugar (packed): Adds deep caramel notes and extra moisture for that soft bite.
• Granulated sugar: Offers a touch of sweetness and helps balance the cookie’s texture.
• Eggs (large): Bind everything together and keep the cookies soft and cakey.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Gives the cookies structure without making them too dense.
• Baking soda: Provides the lift that keeps these cookies light and chewy instead of flat and crisp.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings a cozy, spiced depth that pairs perfectly with oats and raisins.
• Salt: Makes every flavor pop—it’s the secret to unforgettable cookies!
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: Give the cookies their hearty chew and classic oatmeal flavor.
• Raisins: Sweet, juicy pockets of flavor; soak them first for extra plumpness.
• Chopped walnuts (optional): Add crunch and nutty flavor for a little extra personality.

How to Make Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Taking the time to prep ensures your Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies bake evenly and release flawlessly from the tray. Parchment also means easy cleanup, which is always a bonus!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This step adds lots of air, creating a tender structure, so give it a solid few minutes—you’ll notice the texture become creamy and inviting.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finish by mixing in the vanilla extract. This ensures the rich, smooth base for your cookies and guarantees even texture and flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This even distribution means every Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookie will have the same irresistible flavor and perfect rise without any dry clumps.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix only until just combined—over-mixing will toughen your cookies. Scrape down the bowl and be sure to incorporate all the goodness hiding at the bottom.

Step 6: Stir in Oats, Raisins, and Nuts

Gently fold in old-fashioned oats, raisins (plump and juicy if you soaked them!), and walnuts if using. The dough will be thick, which is just what you want for that dense, chewy bite.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each mound for spreading. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers look ever-so-slightly underdone—the magic moment for ultimate chewiness. Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra oats pressed into the top before baking can make these Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies look even more inviting. If you’re feeling fancy, a light drizzle of vanilla glaze turns them into a sweet showstopper for cookie platters or bake sales.

Side Dishes

Pair your cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, a mug of chai, or even a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The warmth of cinnamon against ice-cold, rich dairy is simply dreamy. For a snack board, add fresh apple slices, grapes, or sharp cheddar for a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies in a mason jar and tie with ribbon for a homemade gift, or arrange them on a rustic board with dried fruits and nuts for a charming dessert centerpiece. For parties, mini cookies on lollipop sticks become fun, portable treats that always spark a smile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep that soft and chewy texture, tuck a slice of bread into the container—the cookies will absorb the moisture instead of getting hard or crumbly.

Freezing

These beauties freeze beautifully! Lay cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw at room temperature whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

If you love your Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies warm, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 2–3 minutes or microwave for about 10 seconds. The cookies will regain that glorious, fresh-from-the-oven softness and the raisins will become even juicier.

FAQs

Why are my oatmeal raisin cookies hard instead of soft and chewy?

This often happens from over-baking, or adding too much flour. Pulling the cookies out when the centers look just slightly underdone is key—the residual heat finishes them perfectly on the pan, leading to signature chewiness.

Can I substitute other dried fruit for the raisins?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries, cherries, or chopped dried apricots are delicious in place of (or alongside) raisins. Just keep the total amount the same to ensure proper baking results.

Are walnuts necessary in Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies?

Not at all! Nuts add pleasant crunch and toasty flavor, but feel free to leave them out for a classic version, or substitute with pecans, almonds, or seeds depending on your preference.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated up to 48 hours in advance—this actually deepens the flavor. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking so it’s easy to scoop.

How do I make my raisins extra plump?

Soaking your raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding to the dough rehydrates them, giving each bite an irresistibly juicy pop rather than a tough, chewy texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something timeless and magical about the aroma of Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies baking in your kitchen. Bake a batch and share them with someone you love—you’ll quickly see why this cookie truly is a classic! Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if they become your new go-to treat.

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