Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Why This Recipe Works:

• The combination of apple, cinnamon, oats, and raisins creates a flavorful and comforting cookie.
• The use of oats adds texture and heartiness to the cookies, making them satisfying and wholesome.
• Incorporating fresh apples adds moisture and a burst of fruity sweetness to every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup finely chopped apple (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)

How to Make This Recipe:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the oats, raisins, and chopped apple until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats? While quick oats can be substituted, the texture of the cookies may be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier texture.
• Can I use other types of dried fruit instead of raisins? Yes, you can substitute raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chopped apricots for a different flavor profile.
• How should I store these cookies? Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Expert Tips:

• For added flavor, consider toasting the oats before adding them to the dough.
• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor in the cookies.
• If you prefer softer cookies, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

How to Store This Recipe:

• Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight.