Grandma Jane's Signature Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Welcome to a culinary journey back to simpler times, where the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the kitchen and sweet treats awaited after a long school day. Today, we’re sharing a timeless treasure: the recipe for Grandma Jane’s Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. This isn’t just any cookie recipe; it’s a cherished family heirloom, perfected over decades, and guaranteed to produce the most wonderfully soft, chewy, and flavorful oatmeal raisin cookies you’ve ever tasted. Made with hearty old-fashioned oats and plump, sweet raisins, these cookies aren’t just a dessert – they’re a hug in every bite, a connection to warm memories, and very much the way to my heart. I have a feeling they’ll quickly find a special place in yours, too.

I still vividly recall those childhood afternoons. The moment I turned the corner onto our street, a distinct, sweet scent would often drift through the air. One sniff, and I knew instantly: Mom had baked her famous oatmeal raisin cookies. My heart would swell with anticipation, knowing a special after-school treat was waiting. And the joy didn’t stop there; a secret grin would spread across my face as I imagined those very same cookies nestled in my lunchbox the following day, a sweet surprise to break up the school routine.

My mother wasn’t a baker by trade, but she certainly had her specialties, and these oatmeal raisin cookies were at the top of the list. These were the consistent, beloved treats we eagerly anticipated throughout the year, especially during holidays and special occasions. Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had a stay-at-home mom. When people asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, my answer was always simple: “A Mom.” Years later, I found myself blessed to live out that dream, staying home with my own children, just as my mother did. This experience allowed me to create my own baking traditions, surprising them with homemade delights after school, packing thoughtful lunches, and often slipping in a little note to remind them they were always on my mind, no matter where they were.

Contents

The Undeniable Charm of Classic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

It’s true, raisins can be a divisive ingredient. Many people hear “raisin” and immediately wrinkle their nose with an “eww.” But me? I’m wholeheartedly a raisin lover! I could happily eat them straight from the box, but there’s an undeniable magic that happens when they’re baked into these wonderfully chewy oatmeal raisin cookies. The sweet bursts of fruit perfectly complement the warm, comforting texture of the oats, creating a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.

For all my fellow raisin enthusiasts out there, these cookies are a must-try. And if you’re looking for more ways to enjoy the delightful sweetness of raisins in your baking, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes: Carrot Bundt Cake, Irish Soda Bread, Carrot Coffee Cake with Brown Butter Glaze, and Raisin Spice Bars. Each recipe beautifully showcases the versatility and deliciousness of this often-underestimated dried fruit.

Why These are the Best Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Everyone claims their cookie recipe is “the best,” and today, I’m proudly joining that chorus to sing the praises of this particular recipe. What makes Grandma Jane’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies truly stand out? It’s a combination of simplicity, speed, and undeniable deliciousness. This recipe is incredibly quick and easy to make, relying on basic pantry staples you likely already have on hand. No fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques – just pure, unadulterated cookie perfection.

These aren’t just cookies; they’re a source of comfort, a reliable pick-me-up on a challenging day, and a reminder of home. They hold the power to brighten spirits, evoke happy memories, and satisfy even the most persistent sweet tooth. My own children adore these cookies just as much as my brother and I did when we were small, proving that some recipes are simply destined to be loved across generations. If you’re searching for an easy, homemade treat that consistently delivers on taste and texture, your search ends here. Get ready to discover your new favorite oatmeal raisin cookie recipe!

Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

The secret to truly outstanding cookies lies in the quality and balance of your ingredients. While the full, precise measurements and detailed instructions are provided in the printable recipe card below, here’s a closer look at the key components that give these homemade oatmeal raisin cookies their signature chewiness and rich flavor:

Shortening: This is a crucial ingredient for achieving that classic chewy texture. Regular Crisco or butter-flavored Crisco both work wonderfully, contributing to the cookie’s tenderness and preventing it from spreading too much.
Butter: For the best results, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature. This allows it to cream properly with the sugars, creating an airy base for the dough. Use unsalted butter to control the salt content.
Brown Sugar: Packed into the measuring cup, brown sugar adds moisture and a rich, molasses-like flavor that pairs beautifully with oats and raisins. Light or dark brown sugar can be used based on your preference for a deeper flavor.
Granulated Sugar: White sugar provides essential sweetness and contributes to the crispness of the cookie edges, balancing the chewiness from the brown sugar.
Eggs: Large eggs, at room temperature, act as a binder and add richness and structure to the cookies.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is always recommended for its depth of flavor. It enhances all the other sweet notes in the cookie.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our dry ingredients, providing structure to the cookies.
Salt: A pinch of salt is vital for balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and spread slightly, contributing to their soft texture.
Cinnamon: A warm, aromatic spice that beautifully complements the earthy notes of the oats and the sweetness of the raisins, adding an extra layer of cozy flavor.
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: This is non-negotiable for the perfect texture! Do not substitute with instant oats or quick oats, as they will result in a much softer, less chewy cookie. Old-fashioned oats provide that characteristic hearty chew.
Raisins: Whether you prefer classic dark raisins or golden raisins, both will work wonderfully. Choose plump, moist raisins for the best flavor and texture. If your raisins are a bit dry, you can soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes, then drain thoroughly before adding them to the dough.

Simple Steps to Bake These Easy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Creating these delightful oatmeal raisin cookies is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfect results every time:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking from the start.

In the bowl of your stand mixer, or using an electric hand mixer, combine the softened butter and shortening. Cream them together on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined. This incorporates air, which is key for a tender cookie. Next, gradually add both the brown sugar and granulated sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is truly light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then mix in the pure vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in the mixer, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

Finally, gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats and the plump raisins until they are evenly dispersed throughout the cookie dough. A sturdy spatula works best for this step.

Using a cookie scoop (about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons), drop rounded spoonfuls of the oatmeal raisin cookie dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet. For best results and easy cleanup, I highly recommend lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for proper spreading.

Bake for approximately 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers may still look a little soft, but that’s exactly what you want! It is crucial not to overbake these cookies, as doing so will cause them to lose their signature chewy texture and become hard. They will continue to set as they cool.

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before you transfer them. Then, carefully transfer the warm cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Resist the urge to eat them all immediately – though it will be tempting! Once fully cooled, fill up your cookie jar with these delightful treats.

To keep any uneaten cookies at their peak, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their perfect chewy texture for several days. These cookies, as well as the unbaked cookie dough, also freeze beautifully. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months, ready for a quick thaw and a fresh-baked taste whenever a craving strikes.

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Don’t let this incredible recipe get lost! If you’re excited to bake these perfect Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, make sure you can easily find it later. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now, so it’s always just a click away when that cookie craving hits!

Expert Tips, Tricks & Clever Substitutions for Perfect Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Achieving truly magnificent, from-scratch oatmeal raisin cookies every time involves a few key insights. Starting with the right ingredients and understanding how to handle them will elevate your baking experience and ensure consistently delicious results. Here are some essential tips, tricks, and substitution ideas:

Embrace Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for texture. Always opt for old-fashioned rolled oats instead of instant or quick-cooking oats. Old-fashioned oats are thicker and retain their shape better during baking, giving your cookies that desirable hearty and chewy texture. Instant oats, on the other hand, will disintegrate and result in a softer, less satisfying cookie.
Select Plump, Juicy Raisins: The quality of your raisins makes a significant difference. Seek out plump, moist raisins that are full of flavor. If your raisins have been sitting in the cupboard for a while and feel a bit hard, you can revive them by soaking them in warm water or even a little rum (for an adult twist!) for about 10-15 minutes. Drain them thoroughly and pat them dry before adding them to the dough. This extra step ensures a burst of juicy sweetness in every bite.
The Golden Rule: Do NOT Overbake! This cannot be stressed enough if you’re aiming for chewy cookies. Oatmeal raisin cookies are notorious for becoming dry and crunchy when overbaked. Pull the cookies from the oven just as their edges turn a light golden brown and their centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to cook slightly on the hot baking sheet even after they’ve been removed, a process known as “carryover cooking.” This slight underbaking is the secret to their irresistible chewiness.
Consider Temperature: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to emulsify better with the sugars, creating a smoother, more uniform dough that bakes more evenly.
Don’t Forget the Cinnamon: The touch of cinnamon in this recipe is not just for flavor; it truly complements the oats and raisins, adding a warmth that elevates the entire cookie. If you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of nutmeg or allspice could also be a delicious addition.
Chocolate Chip Variation: If you have a household divided between oatmeal raisin and oatmeal chocolate chip cookie lovers, why not please everyone? Make a double batch of this dough! In one half, keep the raisins. In the other, swap the raisins for an equal amount of your favorite chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark). Everyone gets their preferred treat, and you only do the mixing once!
Add Nuts for Extra Crunch: For an additional layer of texture and flavor, consider adding a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the raisins. Toasting the nuts lightly before adding them will deepen their flavor.
Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary for this recipe, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) can deepen the flavors, allow the oats to hydrate more fully, and prevent the cookies from spreading too much, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.

More Homemade Cookie Recipes to Love

Beyond these iconic oatmeal raisin cookies, my mom had a few other cookie recipes that were always household favorites. Her Peanut Butter Cookies were incredibly rich and satisfying, and her classic Sugar Cookies were perfect for decorating during the holidays. Be sure to explore those beloved recipes too! If you’re looking to expand your homemade cookie repertoire even further, here are some other delightful recipes you are sure to enjoy:

Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies: A seasonal twist on the classic, featuring the warm flavors of apple pie.
Cranberry Apricot Oatmeal Cookies: A burst of fruity brightness in a chewy oat cookie.
Brown Sugar Cookies: Soft, chewy, and deeply flavorful with the richness of brown sugar.
Glazed Lemon Cookies: Zesty, chewy, and topped with a sweet lemon glaze.
Cornflake Cookies: A unique texture with a delightful crunch from cornflakes.
Cowboy Cookies: Loaded with oats, chocolate chips, and often pecans, these are hearty and satisfying.
Mom’s Yum Yum Cookies (pictured above): A truly special, melt-in-your-mouth cookie that lives up to its name.

So, what do you say? Are you ready to bake up some cherished memories of your own? These Grandma Jane’s Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re an experience. Your kids (and adults of all ages!) are sure to be overjoyed to find these delightful cookies waiting for them after school, tucked into their lunchbox, or simply shared during a quiet moment at home. There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of homemade cookies to make any day feel a little more special.

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Grandma Jane’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

A cherished family recipe for perfectly chewy oatmeal raisin cookies, loaded with old-fashioned oats and sweet raisins. These cookies are a true comfort food, loved for generations.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 9 mins
Total Time: 19 mins
Course: Cookies
Cuisine: American
Keywords: chewy oatmeal cookies, Grandma Jane’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies
Servings: 4 dozen
Calories: 109 kcal per serving
Author: Michaela Kenkel

Equipment

Cooling Racks for Baking
Kitchenaid Stand Mixer or KitchenAid Hand Mixer
Wilton Stainless Steel Cookie Scoop
15 x 10 x 1-Inch Cookie/Jelly Roll Pan

Ingredients

1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup butter softened to room temperature
1 cup brown sugar packed
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 cups Old Fashioned Rolled Oats
1 cup raisins (classic or golden)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 C).
In a large mixing bowl, using a stand mixer or electric hand mixer, cream together the softened butter and shortening until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined.
Gradually add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, continuing to beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the pure vanilla extract until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and ground cinnamon until thoroughly combined.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
Gently fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats and plump raisins with a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet or one lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers still appear slightly soft. Do not overbake if you desire truly chewy cookies.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their perfect chewy texture for days.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This beloved recipe for Grandma Jane’s Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies was originally posted on August 30, 2016, in partnership with Bob’s Red Mill Oats. It has since been updated and republished on January 17, 2024, to enhance clarity, improve user experience, and provide even more helpful tips for your baking success.