Sometimes you just need a cookie that feels like a warm hug. Classic oatmeal cookies, with their soft centers and chewy edges, are exactly that kind of comfort food. There’s something about the smell of cinnamon mingling with brown sugar and oats that instantly transports you back to simpler afternoons—maybe the ones where you lingered a bit too long over a cup of tea or coffee, distracted by the sound of leaves rustling outside.
I remember baking these once on a rainy Sunday afternoon. The kitchen filled with that cozy, spicy aroma, while I tried to keep my mind on the next batch instead of the book I’d abandoned on the couch. The cookies came out golden but soft, just as I hoped—though I might have left a few on the baking sheet a bit too long, so they were slightly crispier than planned. Still, that little imperfection just made the experience more real, more homey.
- Soft and chewy texture that’s comforting without being overly sweet
- Subtle warmth from cinnamon, just enough to add depth but not overpower
- Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, so it’s easy to whip up on a whim
- Gives you around two dozen cookies, perfect for sharing or savoring over a few days
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. These cookies aren’t fancy, but they’re reliably satisfying
Even if you’re not usually a baker, this recipe is friendly enough to welcome you in. Plus, the smell alone makes it worth it.
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Classic Oatmeal Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Deliciously soft and chewy classic oatmeal cookies made with rolled oats, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for a comforting treat any time of day.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
Fold in the rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Don’t worry about fancy equipment here—just a decent mixing bowl and a baking sheet will do. Serving these cookies alongside a mug of your favorite hot drink elevates the experience, especially on a chilly afternoon. If you feel adventurous, you could add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts to the dough, though I haven’t tested every variation myself. Sometimes a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking makes a surprisingly nice contrast to the sweetness. Or maybe try swapping half the oats for quick oats to see how the texture shifts. Honestly, it’s fun to experiment a bit, even if it means the results aren’t always perfect.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies gluten-free? You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, but the texture might change slightly since oats absorb moisture differently.
How long do these cookies stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they should stay soft and tasty for about five days. Freezing is a good option if you want to keep them longer.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? You can, but the cookies will be less chewy and a bit softer overall.
Do these cookies freeze well? Yes, freeze them once cooled, and thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Next time you’re craving a treat that feels like a small escape, give these classic oatmeal cookies a try. Once you start baking, it’s hard not to want to make them again.