Trail Mix Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Why This Recipe Works:

• Combining the classic oatmeal raisin cookie with the crunch and variety of trail mix adds a delightful twist to this beloved treat.
• The trail mix provides an array of flavors and textures, including nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, creating a satisfying and wholesome cookie.
• The oats contribute to the chewy texture and heartiness of the cookies, making them perfect for snacking on-the-go.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup trail mix (containing a mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit)
• 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, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown 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, trail mix, 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 store-bought trail mix for this recipe? Yes, you can use any variety of trail mix that you prefer. Look for a mix that contains a combination of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for the best flavor and texture.
• Can I substitute the raisins with other dried fruit? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the cookies by using dried cranberries, chopped apricots, or any other dried fruit you enjoy.

Expert Tips:

• For extra crunch, lightly toast the nuts and seeds from the trail mix before adding them to the cookie dough.
• 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.