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Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
Oatmeal cookies are a classic treat that has delighted generations. The Quaker Oatmeal Cookie recipe, in particular, has become a staple in many households, thanks to its delicious flavor and chewy texture. Originating from the Quaker Oats Company, which has been a trusted name in oats since the late 19th century, this recipe showcases the versatility of oats in baking. Not only are these cookies a delightful snack, but they also offer a wholesome twist with the inclusion of oats, making them a favorite among health-conscious bakers. In this article, we will explore the Quaker Oatmeal Cookie recipe in detail, providing you with everything you need to know to create these delicious cookies at home.
Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
- Total time: 32-35 minutes
Ingredients
To make the perfect Quaker Oatmeal Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups Quaker Oats (old-fashioned or quick oats)
- 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create your Quaker Oatmeal Cookies:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Oats: Stir in the Quaker Oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in raisins or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
- Drop Dough onto Baking Sheets: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Cooking Tips
Here are some expert tips to ensure your oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly:
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps achieve the right texture.
- Oat Type: Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture, while quick oats will yield a softer cookie. Choose based on your preference.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven, so take them out when they are just set.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations
Feel free to customize your Quaker Oatmeal Cookies with these variations:
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Fruit: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks instead of regular chocolate chips.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
Nutrition per Serving
Each serving of Quaker Oatmeal Cookies (1 cookie) contains approximately:
- kcal: 120
- fat: 6g
- saturates: 3g
- carbs: 16g
- sugars: 8g
- fibre: 1g
- protein: 2g
- salt: 0.1g
Serving Suggestions
To enhance your oatmeal cookie experience, consider the following serving suggestions:
- Pair with Milk: Serve warm cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to create delicious ice cream sandwiches with your favorite flavor.
- Presentation: Arrange cookies on a decorative plate and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Accompaniments: Serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Conclusion
The Quaker Oatmeal Cookie recipe is a timeless classic that combines simplicity with deliciousness. With its chewy texture and wholesome ingredients, it’s no wonder these cookies have become a beloved treat in many homes. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast on the go, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided in this article, you can create your own batch of Quaker Oatmeal Cookies that will impress family and friends alike. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked oatmeal cookies!
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