Are you ready to make a breakfast treat that’s both chewy and tasty? Oatmeal raisin breakfast cookies are the perfect start to your day. Packed with rolled oats, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are easy to whip up. Whether you prefer them soft or crunchy, I’ve got tips to make them just right. Join me as we explore the simple steps to bake these delicious cookies!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: This recipe uses wholesome ingredients like oats, coconut oil, and honey, making it a nutritious breakfast option.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time!
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These cookies are great for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Each ingredient plays a key role in the flavor and texture of the cookies. Rolled oats give a hearty chew, while flour binds everything together. Baking soda helps the cookies rise, making them light and fluffy. Cinnamon adds warmth and a cozy aroma. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Coconut oil provides a unique richness. Honey or maple syrup adds natural sweetness. A large egg acts as a binder and gives moisture. Vanilla extract boosts the overall flavor profile. Raisins provide a sweet, chewy bite. If you want extra crunch or richness, add walnuts or dark chocolate chips. These optional ingredients can elevate your cookie experience.
With this blend of simple ingredients, you can create a tasty breakfast treat. Each cookie is packed with nutrition and flavor. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for busy mornings or afternoon snacks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature helps the cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step keeps the cookies from sticking. It also makes for easy cleanup later.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir these ingredients well. This mix forms the base of your cookie. Make sure all ingredients blend nicely together.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil, 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these together until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to the cookies.
Forming the Cookie Dough
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. Next, fold in 1/2 cup of raisins and any optional ingredients like 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly mixed throughout the dough.
Baking the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them a few inches apart, as they will spread when baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should look golden, while the centers stay soft.
Cooling Instructions
Once baked, take the cookies out of the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This cooling time helps them set. After that, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your chewy and tasty oatmeal raisin breakfast cookies!
Tips & Tricks
How to Make Cookies Chewier or Crunchier
To make your cookies chewier, use more coconut oil. You can also add an extra egg yolk. This change gives a nice, moist texture. For crunchier cookies, bake them a bit longer. Just watch them closely to avoid burning. A higher oven temperature can also help crisp them up.
Substitutions for Healthier Options
You can swap some ingredients for healthier choices. Try whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. It adds fiber and nutrients. You could also use applesauce in place of coconut oil. This will lower the fat but still keep cookies moist. For a lower sugar option, use mashed bananas instead of honey or maple syrup.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Spices or Extracts
Add a twist to your cookies with extra spices. A pinch of nutmeg or ginger pairs well with cinnamon. You can also try a splash of almond extract for a new flavor. If you want a chocolatey touch, add cocoa powder. Just remember to adjust the flour amount if you do!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your oats and spices are fresh for the best flavor and texture in your cookies.
- Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to swap raisins for other dried fruits or add nuts and seeds according to your preference.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies should be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze them for longer shelf life.
Variations
Gluten-Free Version
To make these cookies gluten-free, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum. This ingredient helps bind the dough. You can still enjoy the chewy texture and fantastic flavor. Just mix in the gluten-free flour as you would with regular flour.
Variations with Different Add-ins
You can customize these cookies with many add-ins. Try dried cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist. Chopped pecans or almonds add a nice crunch. If you love chocolate, dark chocolate chips are a great choice. Mix and match to find your favorite combinations. Just remember to maintain the total amount of add-ins to keep the texture right.
Vegan Adaptation Options
To make these cookies vegan, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. Also, use maple syrup instead of honey. These simple swaps keep the cookies moist and delicious while fitting a vegan diet. Enjoy the same great taste with these easy changes.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Cookies
To keep your oatmeal raisin breakfast cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from getting dry. You can place parchment paper between layers of cookies to avoid sticking. Store the cookies at room temperature for up to five days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them.
Freezing Instructions for Longer Shelf Life
You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. First, let the cookies cool completely. Then, wrap each cookie in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label them with the date. When you want a cookie, just take one out and let it thaw at room temperature.
How to Reheat or Retain Freshness
To enjoy warm cookies, you can reheat them in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes. If you prefer a microwave, warm them for about 10-15 seconds. This helps to keep them soft and chewy. For added flavor, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can make them even better!
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. You can store the dough in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to bake, simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet. This saves time on busy mornings. You can also bake a batch and store the cookies in an airtight container.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
You can use quick oats, but the texture will change. Quick oats absorb more liquid and may make the cookies softer. If you prefer a chewier cookie, stick with rolled oats. They give the best texture and hold up well during baking.
What are the nutritional benefits of oatmeal raisin cookies for breakfast?
Oatmeal raisin cookies have several benefits. They provide fiber from oats and raisins, which helps digestion. Oats also give energy, keeping you full longer. Using coconut oil adds healthy fats, while honey or maple syrup offers natural sweetness. You can enjoy these cookies guilt-free for breakfast!
How should I adjust baking time for larger cookies?
If you make larger cookies, you will need to adjust the baking time. For cookies that are about twice the size, bake them for 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them and look for a golden edge. The center should still feel soft. Let them cool a bit before eating.
You learned how to make oatmeal raisin cookies from scratch. We covered key ingredients and easy steps to bake them perfectly. I also shared tips to adjust texture and flavor. You can even try healthier options, variations, and storage tips to keep your cookies fresh.
Now, you have all the tools to bake great cookies. Enjoy the process and the tasty result
