Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies
There’s something incredibly comforting about a freshly baked cookie, and the nostalgia that comes with Grandma’s oatmeal cookies is simply unmatched. These cookies are a delightful blend of chewy oats, rich brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon that transports you straight to Grandma’s kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate that warm, homey feeling in your own home. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s make some Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Top Reasons to Make Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies
- Nostalgia Factor: These cookies remind us of childhood, family gatherings, and the loving hands that baked them.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, these cookies are easy to whip up anytime.
- Versatile Add-ins: You can customize these cookies with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- Chewy Texture: The combination of oats and shortening gives these cookies a wonderfully chewy bite.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch and share with friends, family, or neighbors for a sweet surprise!
What You’ll Gather
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- 2 large eggs, well beaten
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats (do not use quick-cooking oats)
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or raisins (see Recipe Notes)
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for accuracy.
- Electric mixer or whisk – for beating eggs and mixing the dough.
- Baking sheets – to hold the cookies while they bake.
- Parchment paper – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cooling rack – to cool the cookies after baking.
Step-by-Step: Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Cream the Shortening and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps the cookies rise.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the well-beaten eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Fold in Oats and Add-ins
Gently fold in the old-fashioned oats and your choice of chopped walnuts or raisins. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each for spreading.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a little soft but will firm up as they cool.
Step 9: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them set and maintain their chewy texture.
Substitutions by Category
- Sweeteners: Replace white sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
- Oils: Substitute shortening with coconut oil or unsalted butter for a different flavor profile.
- Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.
- Mix-ins: Swap walnuts for pecans or add dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Mistakes That Ruin Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies
- Using quick-cooking oats instead of old-fashioned oats can lead to a mushy texture.
- Overmixing the dough after adding flour can make the cookies tough.
- Baking at too high of a temperature can cause the cookies to burn on the edges before the center is fully cooked.
- Not chilling the dough can result in cookies that spread too much during baking.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
These Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready for a warm treat. Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Enjoy them warm by just popping them in the microwave for a few seconds!
Reader Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the cookies may have a denser texture. You might want to start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose to see if you like the result.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can replace shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor and texture. Just remember that butter will yield a richer taste!
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after you remove them from the oven.
Can I add chocolate chips to the oatmeal cookie dough?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips make a delicious addition to Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies. Just fold them in with the oats and nuts or raisins for a delightful twist.
Bring It to the Table
There’s nothing quite like a plate of warm Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies to bring people together. Whether you’re sharing them with family, friends, or simply enjoying them yourself with a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. They embody the spirit of home baking—simple, comforting, and filled with love. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your home. With each bite, you’ll be reminded of those cherished moments in Grandma’s kitchen, making these cookies not just a treat, but a heartfelt experience. Happy baking!
Grandmas Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the well-beaten eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the old-fashioned oats and your choice of chopped walnuts or raisins.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Notes
- For a lower glycemic option, replace white sugar with coconut sugar.
- Substitute shortening with coconut oil or unsalted butter for a different flavor.
- Freeze cookies in a single layer for up to 3 months for longer storage.
