Fall in Love with the Classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Welcome to the beautiful world of vegan baking! Whether you are a long-time vegan, or are just looking for healthier alternatives to your favorite recipes, we’ve got you covered. In this recipe article, I am excited to share with you my take on a classic dessert that has won hearts around the world: Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. These cookies are soft, chewy, bursting with warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, and loaded with raisins and rolled oats.
Baking is an art form that requires both precision and creativity. As someone who takes pride in being a vegan chef, I have meticulously tested and tweaked this recipe to ensure that you can enjoy delicious cookies that are also aligned with your dietary restrictions. This recipe is not only vegan, but also free from refined sugars and gluten.
For those who are unfamiliar with veganism, it is a type of lifestyle that aims to reduce the harm caused to animals through the consumption of animal-derived products such as meat, dairy, eggs, and honey. Veganism is not only compassionate towards animals, but also better for your health and the environment.
So whether you are a seasoned vegan or someone who is simply interested in exploring more plant-based options in your diet, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies will be a treat for your taste buds. Join me as we delve into the world of vegan baking and create delicious desserts that nourish our bodies while satisfying our cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Do you crave a sweet treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty? Well, look no further than these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies! These cookies are not only delicious but they’re also vegan-friendly and packed with wholesome ingredients. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
Firstly, the combination of hearty rolled oats and plump raisins makes for a winning flavor and texture combination. The soft and chewy consistency of these cookies is an undeniably satisfying treat that you will love.
Secondly, these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are not only scrumptious but also healthy. They’re free from refined sugar and made with whole-food ingredients like ground flaxseed, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You can feel excited to indulge in a tasty treat that offers important nutrients like fiber.
Thirdly, this recipe is easy to follow for even novice bakers! With just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up a batch of cookies that everyone will love in less than 30 minutes. Plus, it’s gluten-free options are perfect for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Lastly, this recipe is vegan-friendly, meaning it’s free of harmful animal products such as butter or eggs. You can enjoy these Oatmeal Raisin Cookies knowing that no animals were harmed in their production.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a satisfyingly sweet treat that ticks all the boxes; wholesome ingredients, easy to make at home, vegan-friendly options available, and deliciously flavored with oatmeal and raisins. These Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are undoubtedly the best choice for you!
Ingredient List
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for these delicious vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup rolled oats
Wet Ingredients
- 1 tbsp ground flax seeds
- 3 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup margarine, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 1/2 cups raisins
Make sure to have all of these ingredients on hand before starting to ensure the best results.
The Recipe How-To
Now, it’s time to get baking! This recipe yields one dozen oatmeal raisin cookies, and if you’re lucky, they might even last until tomorrow. Let’s get started.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon ground flax seeds + 3 tablespoons water (flax “egg”)
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup raisins
Steps
Step 1 – Preheat oven and mix dry ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, in a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, nutmeg and cinnamon.
Step 2 – Make the flax “egg”
In a small bowl, combine the ground flax seed with water and stir well. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes jelly-like in consistency.
Step 3 – Cream wet ingredients and add dry mix
In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add the flax egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined. Finally, slowly incorporate the flour mixture into the wet mixture until everything is combined.
Step 4 – Fold in raisins
Add the raisins to your cookie dough mixture and fold them in gently.
Step 5 – Chill dough and prepare cookie sheet
Chill your dough mixture for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle. In the meantime, prepare one or two cookie sheets with parchment paper lining.
Step 6 – Shape cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of cookie dough and roll them in your palms to create smooth individual balls then place them onto your prepared cookie sheet(s) a couple of inches apart from each other as they will flatten out when baked.
Step 7 – Bake
Bake your oatmeal raisin cookies on the middle rack of your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, giving them time to turn golden brown around the edges while remaining soft in the center.
Step 8 – Cool down
Remove your cookies from the oven and let them sit on their cookie sheet(s) for at least five minutes before transferring them onto wire cooling racks for additional cooling.
These oatmeal raisin cookies make a delicious snack or dessert for any occasion. Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Let’s face it, sometimes we want to switch things up in the kitchen. Fortunately, this recipe allows for some substitutions and variations without sacrificing its deliciousness.
– Gluten-free option: If you have celiac disease or are just trying to avoid gluten, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for an equal amount of oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix. The cookies will still be irresistibly chewy.
– Refined sugar-free option: Instead of using granulated and brown sugar, use 3/4 or 1 cup of maple syrup or another liquid sweetener of your choice. You can also try using coconut sugar for a less refined option.
– Oatmeal Chocolate Chip variation: Swap out the raisins for chocolate chips and voila! You’ve got yourself a tasty twist on a classic cookie.
– Peanut Butter variation: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the wet ingredients for some extra richness and depth of flavor in your cookies.
– Dairy-Free option: Use vegan margarine or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
– Coconut Oil option: If you prefer not to use margarine, try using coconut oil instead. Just make sure it’s at room temperature so it’s easily mixable with the other ingredients.
These substitutions and variations will not only allow you to tailor the recipe to your personal taste preferences and dietary needs/preferences but also help you create new cookie favorites without compromising on taste or texture. Remember that experimentation is part of the fun of baking, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have your freshly baked oatmeal raisin cookies, it’s time to indulge and enjoy! These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies pair perfectly with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The cookies’ chewy texture combined with the sweetness of raisins and cinnamon make for an ideal afternoon snack or dessert.
For those looking for a more indulgent treat, why not try sandwiching two cookies together with some peanut butter, almond butter, or even vegan chocolate spread? You can also crumble some of the cookies over your favorite non-dairy ice cream or yogurt for a crunchy topping.
If you are hosting a gathering or party, these cookies are guaranteed to impress even your non-vegan guests. You can decorate them with a dusting of powdered sugar or even melted dark chocolate to add an extra touch of indulgence.
These cookies are also perfect for sharing with loved ones. Pack them up in a cute tin or mason jar and gift them to someone special. They make for an excellent appreciation gift for teachers or colleagues.
With their versatile flavor and texture, these vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth, any time of day!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this vegan oatmeal raisin cookie recipe is that they can be made ahead of time and stored for days without losing their chewy texture or delicious flavor. If you’re like me and busy during the week, preparing them in advance can make it easier for you to always have a sweet treat on hand.
To make-ahead, simply follow the instructions and store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. The cookies will stay fresh and chewy because of the rolled oats and raisins in the mix. Plus, since this recipe doesn’t include any dairy or animal products, you won’t have to worry about them spoiling quickly due to bacterial growth.
If you’d like to extend the shelf life even further, you can also freeze them. Just make sure that they’re completely cool before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to six months.
When ready to enjoy your stored cookie, allow them to come up to room temperature before eating. If you want to enjoy that just baked experience, heat them up in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes or until they are warmed through. Just be careful not to overheat them as it could ruin the chewy texture of these cookies.
In case there are any leftovers from your baking session, storing these cookies is quite easy as well. You can stack them on top of each other in an airtight container and place some parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. They will stay soft and delicious for days— but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Tips for Perfect Results
As a vegan chef, I want to share with you some tips and recommendations that will help you achieve perfect results for your oatmeal raisin cookies every time. With these tips, you can ensure that your vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are chewy, full of flavor, and have that perfect combination of sweetness and texture.
Firstly, when measuring dry ingredients such as flour, baking powder and baking soda, be sure to use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for dry ingredients. Using the wrong measurements can significantly impact the consistency and texture of your cookies.
Secondly, let your baking sheet cool completely between batches. Baking multiple batches of cookies on warm sheets will cause them to melt too quickly, losing their shape and texture.
Another tip is to use room temperature butter or margarine for your recipe. The vegan butter should be soft but still somewhat firm to the touch. When you mix it with the sugar it will become creamy and aerated which helps to make the cookies light and fluffy.
Furthermore, don’t overmix your cookie dough once you have added the dry ingredients – this can create tough cookies rather than chewy ones. Mix until just combined and no more flour is visible.
Also, let your cookie dough chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before cooking. This helps solidify the fats in the dough which prevents spreading during baking.
Lastly, if you prefer a chewier texture, add a little extra water to the dough mixture or substitute some of the all-purpose flour with oat flour. You can also experiment with different types of vegan margarine or coconut oil to reach your ideal texture.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfect vegan oatmeal raisin cookies every time you bake them!
FAQ
As with any recipe, questions may arise as you embark on your oatmeal raisin cookie-making journey. To prepare you for the potential queries that may come up along the way, I’ve put together a comprehensive FAQ section to tackle some of the most common inquiries. From ingredient substitutions to questions about storage, this FAQ section will have you covered. So, let’s jump into it!
Why do my oatmeal raisin cookies get hard?
When incorporating flour into the mixture, exercise caution not to overdo it. Vigorous and excessive mixing can cause gluten to develop, resulting in unpleasantly tough cookies. Stick to the instructions provided in the recipe and avoid overmixing. In cases where the recipe does not require the use of an electric mixer, use a wooden spoon to blend in the dry ingredients.
Are oatmeal raisin cookies better for you than chocolate chip?
While oatmeal raisin cookies can be considered a healthier option compared to other varieties, it is recommended to consume ingredients like sugar and butter in limited quantities.
Can I use coconut oil instead of butter in oatmeal cookies?
For added richness and moisture to your recipe, consider using either melted butter or coconut oil. I personally opted for coconut oil and was pleasantly surprised by the buttery taste it imparted. Adding one large egg and an extra egg yolk will result in a thick dough and light, moist final texture.
Are oatmeal cookies good for celiac disease?
Oatmeal cookies can be a great option for people with celiac disease or wheat/gluten allergy, as long as they are made with the right ingredients. To create a gluten-free oatmeal flour, blend oats in a food processor until it becomes powdery.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are a must-try for anyone looking for a sweet, hearty snack that is easy to make and delicious to eat. By using only plant-based ingredients such as rolled oats, raisins, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vegan butter, you can enjoy these mouthwatering treats without compromising your values or dietary requirements.
Whether you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint, cater to celiac disease or gluten-free diets, or simply looking for healthier alternatives to traditional baked goods, these cookies tick all the boxes. They are chewy, flavorful, and guilt-free, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time in-between.
So why not try this recipe out for yourself? With our step-by-step instructions and helpful tips on substitutions and variations, you’ll be able to customize your cookies to suit your taste buds and preferences. You can even make them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Remember that with a little creativity and experimentation, you can turn any recipe into a masterpiece of your own. So don’t be afraid to play around with different spices, sweeteners, or toppings until you find the perfect combination. And most importantly of all: have fun baking and enjoying the fruits of your labor!
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies - Vegan Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seeds
- 6 tablespoons water
- 1 cup margarine, non-hydrogenated (I use Earth Balance)
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, unbleached
- 1/2 cup oat bran
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly ground
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Spray cookie sheets with non stick spray.
- In a blender, or using a wisk, whip together the flax seed and water until thick and creamy.
- Cream together margarine, sugars, vanilla and flax seed mixture until well blended.
- I another bowl mix flour, oat bran, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Add to the wet ingredients, and mix until well blended and smooth.
- Stir in rolled oats and raisins until thoroughly combined.
- Use a tablespoon to scoop up dough and lighty press cookies to form about 1/2" thick rounds.
- Bake cokies until golden brown, about 12-15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool 3 minutes on the cookie sheet before transfering to wire rack to cool.
Add Your Own Notes
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.