Healthy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe

Oatmeal raisin cookies are one of those recipes that never go out of style. With their chewy texture, warm hint of cinnamon, and natural sweetness from raisins, they strike the perfect balance between comfort and flavor. These cookies are hearty enough for a snack, sweet enough for dessert, and simple enough to whip up any day of the week.

Made with old-fashioned oats, rich brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla, they bring together wholesome ingredients in a way that feels both classic and satisfying. Whether you’re baking for family, sharing with friends, or stocking up for the week, this recipe guarantees cookies that stay soft and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

• Perfectly Chewy Texture: The combination of oats and brown sugar gives these cookies a soft center with slightly crisp edges.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is pantry-friendly and easy to find—no fancy extras required.
• Warm Flavor: Cinnamon and vanilla enhance the sweetness of the raisins, giving every bite a cozy touch.
• Customizable: While raisins are classic, you can swap them for cranberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for after-school snacks, coffee breaks, or a homemade treat to share.
• Freezer-Friendly: The dough freezes beautifully, so you can bake fresh cookies anytime without extra effort.

Ingredients Needed

To make the best oatmeal raisin cookies, you’ll need a combination of baking staples and flavorful add-ins. Each ingredient has a purpose, so using the right balance will ensure your cookies come out soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Butter is the base of the dough, providing richness and flavor. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed – Adds sweetness, moisture, and a slight caramel-like taste that makes the cookies soft and chewy.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Balances the sweetness and helps create the right texture.
• 2 large eggs – Eggs bind the dough together and add structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor and complements the cinnamon and raisins.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The main dry ingredient that forms the structure of the cookies.
• 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and prevents them from being too dense.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – Brings warmth and depth of flavor to the cookies.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 3 cups old-fashioned oats – The key ingredient that makes these cookies hearty and chewy. Avoid instant oats, as they won’t provide the same texture.
• 1 cup raisins – Adds natural sweetness and chewiness. You can also plump them up by soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes, then draining before adding.
• Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips if you want extra flavor and crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps for oatmeal raisin cookies that turn out soft and delicious every time:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step should take about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer. Creaming ensures air is incorporated, which helps the cookies bake evenly.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully blended before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract. At this stage, the mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures the leavening and spices are evenly distributed before adding them to the dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 6: Fold in Oats and Raisins

Gently stir in the old-fashioned oats and raisins until they are evenly spread throughout the dough. If you’re using optional nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.

Step 7: Shape the Dough

Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough (or use a cookie scoop for consistency) and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives the cookies room to spread while baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers are still slightly soft. For chewier cookies, remove them from the oven earlier; for crispier cookies, let them bake closer to the 12-minute mark.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up while staying chewy in the middle.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Freezing Dough: Shape dough balls and freeze on a tray, then store in freezer bags. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee.
• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a sweet twist.
• Crumble over vanilla ice cream for a quick dessert.