Chewy Holiday Oatmeal Cookies with Raisins & Walnuts

Ingredients

• 113 grams of melted salted butter
• 150 grams of brown sugar
• 1 whole egg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 125 grams of all-purpose flour
• 135 grams of whole oatmeal
• 150 grams of raisins or cranberries
• 60 grams of coarsely chopped walnuts

Step-by-Step Process

1. Begin by melting the salted butter and adding it to a mixing bowl.
2. Toss in the brown sugar, capturing the essence of molasses, a true holiday flavor profile.
3. Crack open an egg into the bowl, then sprinkle in the baking soda and the cinnamon.
4. Mix these ingredients until they form a smooth blend.
5. Add the all-purpose flour. Mix again at low speed until well combined.
6. Add raisins or cranberries and coarsely chopped walnuts.
7. Add the oatmeal.
8. Mix all the ingredients until combined.
9. Divide the cookies into 24 pieces, around 32 grams each, ensuring they're all of the same size. Place them on a baking pan lined with a silicone mat.
10. Bake these beauties at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (or 180 degrees Celsius) for around 12 to 14 minutes.
11. Let them cool on the pan to prevent sweating.

Tips to Enhance Your Oatmeal Cookies

• Using brown sugar and cinnamon not only creates a holiday flavor profile but also adds moisture to your cookies.
• Remember, cookies are forgiving. Don't stress over getting them perfect.
• Spacing your cookies apart on the tray will ensure they don't stick together and cook evenly.

Baking On Your Terms: Ingredient Substitutes

• You can substitute the brown sugar with white sugar and a touch of maple syrup to maintain the moisture and flavor.
• If you're not a fan of raisins or cranberries, try using dried cherries or apricots.
• Walnuts can be swapped for pecans, almonds, or even pistachios for a unique twist.

A Perfect Balance: Nutrition Information

Given a serving size of around 50 grams, each cookie will have the following:

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrate Content: 28 grams
• Cholesterol Content: 20 mg
• Fat Content: 10 grams
• Protein Content: 3 grams
• Saturated Fat Content: 4 grams
• Sodium Content: 90 mg
• Sugar Content: 15 grams
• Trans Fat Content: 0 grams
• Unsaturated Fat Content: 6 grams

Please note these values are estimates only and should not be used for medical or dietary purposes.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Oatmeal Cookies

Oatmeal cookies are versatile delights. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa, offering the perfect balance of sweet and savory to your tastebuds. If you're a coffee lover, the robust flavors of a good cup of joe complement the sweetness of these cookies. For tea aficionados, a warm cup of chai or Earl Grey accentuates the cinnamon notes in the cookies.

FAQs

Can I use regular butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can. If you're using unsalted butter, just add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Can these cookies be made vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg, and use a dairy-free butter substitute.

How can I store these cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay fresh for up to a week.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

While this recipe is quick to make, you can freeze the dough. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

What if I don't have an ice cream scooper?

No problem! You can use a regular spoon to portion the dough. Just aim for equal-sized cookies for even baking.