Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Why This Recipe Works:

• This recipe combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with the classic oatmeal raisin cookie, creating a perfect treat for fall.
• The addition of pumpkin puree adds moisture and richness to the cookies, while the warm spices evoke the essence of autumn.
• The combination of oats, raisins, and pumpkin spice creates a satisfyingly chewy and flavorful cookie that’s perfect for seasonal indulgence.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1/2 cup raisins

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, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the pumpkin puree, 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 and raisins 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 pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices? Yes, you can substitute 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice for the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Can I substitute the raisins with other dried fruit? Absolutely! Feel free to use dried cranberries, chopped dates, or any other dried fruit you prefer.

Expert Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the dough.
• Be careful not to overmix the dough to ensure the cookies maintain a tender texture.
• 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.