Ina Garten’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with warm cinnamon, plump raisins, and hearty oats. These classic cookies have a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them an ideal snack, dessert, or even a quick breakfast treat.

What are Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies?

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Soft and chewy texture: Perfect balance between crisp edges and a chewy center.
Warm, comforting flavors: Hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar.
Quick and easy to make: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for any occasion: A great treat for snacks, gifts, or tea time.
Customizable mix-ins: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or coconut flakes for variety.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare baking sheets: Line with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time: Mix well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Stir in oats, raisins, and walnuts (if using).

Step 5: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Scoop dough onto baking sheets using a tablespoon or cookie scoop.
Leave space between cookies: They will spread slightly.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies?

A glass of cold milk: The classic cookie pairing.
Coffee or tea: Complements the warm cinnamon flavors.
Vanilla ice cream: Sandwich cookies with ice cream for a decadent treat.
Peanut butter spread: Adds a nutty, creamy contrast.
Dark chocolate drizzle: For a rich, chocolatey twist.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Use old-fashioned rolled oats: Quick oats can make the cookies less chewy.
Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes: Keep them plump and soft.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes: Helps prevent cookies from spreading too much.
Do not overbake: The cookies will continue cooking as they cool.
Add extra cinnamon: If you love a stronger spice flavor.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies: Swap raisins for chocolate chips.
Coconut Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut for extra texture.
Spiced Oatmeal Cookies: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies: Replace raisins with dried cranberries.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies: Mix in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter for a nutty flavor.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: Keep cookies fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing dough: Scoop dough onto a baking sheet, freeze, and transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat for a fresh taste: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds before serving.

FAQs

How do I keep oatmeal raisin cookies soft and chewy?

Use brown sugar instead of all granulated sugar, do not overbake, and store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but rolled oats give the cookies a chewier texture, while quick oats make them softer and slightly less textured.

How do I prevent my oatmeal raisin cookies from spreading too much?

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, and make sure the butter is softened but not melted when mixing the ingredients.

Can I substitute raisins with other ingredients?

Yes, raisins can be replaced with chocolate chips, dried cranberries, chopped dates, or nuts for a different flavor and texture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are soft, chewy, and full of warm, comforting flavors.

Try this easy recipe today and enjoy homemade cookies that taste better than store-bought!