There is something wonderfully comforting about the Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe, a delightful treat that perfectly balances soft, chewy oats with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, all complemented by bursts of tender apple and sweet raisins. These cookies are not only a cozy snack but also bring a nostalgic feeling of homemade goodness that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving a sweet yet wholesome indulgence, this recipe is a brilliant way to satisfy those cravings with wholesome ingredients and heartwarming flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create remarkable texture and flavor. Each component plays its part, from the wholesome oats to the fragrant spices, ensuring every bite feels just right.
- Rolled oats (1 cup): Adds a hearty chewiness and wholesome texture that makes these cookies so satisfying.
- Whole wheat flour (3/4 cup): Gives a nutty depth and helps keep the cookies tender and sturdy.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works its magic to lighten the dough and create perfect cookie rise.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps balance the leavening for a beautifully soft crumb.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings that iconic warm, cozy spiciness every apple cinnamon lover adores.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, earthy spice that complements cinnamon perfectly.
- Unsweetened applesauce (1/2 cup): Keeps the cookies moist and infuses them with natural apple flavor.
- Coconut oil, melted (1/4 cup): Gives a smooth, rich texture and slight tropical hint.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/2 cup): Delivers deep caramel sweetness and helps with chewiness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor, adding fragrant warmth.
- Raisins (1/2 cup): Offer bursts of juicy sweetness and chew to every bite.
- Diced fresh apple (1/2 cup, peeled and finely chopped): Brings fresh, juicy bits that brighten and balance the cookie.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze. It’s the simple prep that makes your baking experience much smoother.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisking these together blends all the spices and leavening agents uniformly, creating a flavorful foundation for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture brings moisture, sweetness, and a lovely fragrant base that will marry beautifully with your dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with your dry mixture and stir gently just until everything is combined. Overmixing can toughen the cookies, so a light hand here keeps them tender and chewy.
Step 5: Fold in Raisins and Fresh Apple
Gently fold in the raisins and diced apple, distributing these tasty bursts evenly through the dough. The apple bits add a hint of freshness, while the raisins contribute pockets of rich chew that elevate the cookie experience.
Step 6: Form and Bake the Cookies
Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for room to spread. Flatten each scoop slightly for even baking. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until the edges turn a beautiful golden hue, signaling they’re perfectly done.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This pause lets the cookies set, ensuring they have the ideal chewy texture with crisp edges. Now you’re ready to taste the magic of your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe!
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle a tiny dusting of cinnamon sugar over the cookies just after baking, or add a thin drizzle of caramel sauce for indulgence. A light glaze of cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully when you want a special treat that’s a bit more decadent.
Side Dishes
These cookies are stellar with a tall glass of cold milk, a warm cup of chai tea, or freshly brewed coffee. For brunch or snacks, pair them alongside a bowl of vanilla yogurt and fresh fruit to create a balanced and satisfying spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe stacked on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves as décor for a seasonal vibe. Or wrap them in parchment tied with twine for charming gifts that friends and family will adore. You can even sandwich two cookies with cream cheese filling for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their softness and flavor for up to five days, perfect if you want to spread the cookie joy over a few days.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can stay frozen for up to three months without losing their deliciousness.
Reheating
For that just-baked warmth, reheat your cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 to 7 minutes or microwave them for 10 to 15 seconds. The warmth enhances their aroma and soft texture, making them taste like they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I substitute butter for coconut oil in this recipe?
Absolutely! Butter will add a richer flavor and slightly denser texture. Use the same amount; just melt it before mixing with the wet ingredients.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe uses whole wheat flour, so it is not gluten-free as is. You can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend, but texture and taste might vary slightly.
Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans make excellent additions for extra crunch and flavor. Add about 1/2 cup when folding in raisins and apples.
How can I make these cookies softer or chewier?
For softer cookies, slightly reduce the baking time and ensure not to overmix the dough. Adding an extra tablespoon of applesauce can also enhance moisture and chewiness.
Can I use dried apple instead of fresh apple?
You can, but fresh apple provides the best texture and moisture. If using dried apple, soak it briefly in warm water and drain well before folding in to prevent dryness.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe is truly a heartwarming classic that brings joy with every bite. Its perfect blend of comforting spices, wholesome oats, and juicy apple bits make it a family favorite you’ll want to bake again and again. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a batch of these delicious cookies—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a wholesome and delicious treat, combining the natural sweetness of applesauce and raisins with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Made with whole wheat flour and rolled oats, these cookies offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite without compromising on flavor. Perfect for a cozy snack or a nutritious dessert, they are easy to prepare and bake to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 3/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup diced fresh apple (peeled and finely chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Stir these together until evenly mixed.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened applesauce, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Add Raisins and Apples: Carefully fold in the raisins and finely diced fresh apple pieces, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each mound to help them bake evenly.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown, indicating they are done.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For softer cookies, reduce baking time slightly.
- You can substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for variety.
- Ensure apples are finely chopped to help them incorporate well into the dough and cook evenly.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Optionally, add a dash of ground ginger for an extra spice kick.
