Ah, gather around my kitchen, dear, as I share with you a recipe that’s close to my heart – the Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a bundle of memories, each one baked with the warmth and joy of many Christmases past. This recipe, handed down through generations, makes about 24 cookies, perfect for filling your home with the sweet scents of the holidays and sharing with those you hold dear.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for an easy release and cleanup.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is the foundation of our cookie’s delightful texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. The smell is just heavenly!
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices are the essence of Christmas, infusing each cookie with holiday cheer.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until well combined. The dough will start to form, rich and promising.
- Fold in Oats and Raisins: Gently fold in the oats and, if you like, the raisins. For a little extra joy, soak the raisins in warm water before adding them to plump them up.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared sheets. Each scoop is like a little parcel of Christmas joy.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are a lovely golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen with the spirit of the holidays.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Secret Tips and Family Anecdotes:
- Butter is Key: Remember, the butter should be softened but not melted for the perfect texture.
- A Pinch of Something Extra: Sometimes, I add a touch of ground cloves or ginger for a bit more festive flair.
- A Family Affair: Making these cookies has always been a family event in our home, with everyone joining in, from the oldest to the youngest.
- Spreading the Love: We love packing these cookies in festive tins and sharing them with friends and neighbors, spreading the warmth of the season.
As you bake these cookies, imagine a cozy, warm kitchen, filled with the laughter of loved ones, the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree in the background, and the sweet melody of carols in the air. Each cookie is not just a treat, but a reminder of the love and traditions that make this season so special. Happy baking, and Merry Christmas! 🎄🍪❤️