Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon are a timeless classic that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon, rich brown sugar, and hearty oats with plump, sweet raisins. These cookies are chewy in the center, slightly crisp on the edges, and full of cozy flavor.

Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, they capture the nostalgic taste of homemade cookies while remaining easy to make. The cinnamon adds depth, and the brown sugar lends a caramel-like richness, making each bite irresistibly delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The oats create a satisfying chewiness, while the raisins provide natural sweetness and juiciness.

The brown sugar enhances the cookie’s caramel undertones, and the cinnamon gives a gentle warmth that’s perfect for any season.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it elevates a classic cookie to something extraordinary. Each cookie has a delightful chew, a hint of spice, and the natural sweetness of raisins — all without being overly sweet.

They are versatile, universally loved, and perfect for gifting, lunchboxes, or enjoying with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: ~150 per cookie
• Course: Dessert / Snack
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 ½ cups raisins (or golden raisins)
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in oats, raisins, and optional nuts.

2. Shape and Bake

1. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough balls (about 2 tablespoons each) onto prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
2. Flatten slightly with the back of the spoon or your fingers for even baking.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.
4. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven and line baking sheets.
2. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
4. Whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients.
6. Fold in oats, raisins, and nuts (if using).
7. Scoop dough onto baking sheets and slightly flatten.
8. Bake 10–12 minutes.
9. Cool on baking sheet 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.

How to Serve

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea. They also make excellent treats for lunchboxes, dessert platters, or gift packages.

Recipe Tips

• Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture; quick oats can make cookies too soft.
• Slightly underbake the cookies for a chewier center.
• Soak raisins in warm water for 10 minutes if you prefer plumper, juicier bites.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Variations

• Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1 cup finely chopped apples and reduce raisins.
• Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies: Replace raisins with 1 ½ cups chocolate chips.
• Nutty Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
• Spiced Oatmeal Cookies: Add ¼ tsp nutmeg and ¼ tsp ground cloves along with cinnamon.

Freezing and Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep covered for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
• Freezing Dough: Scoop dough balls onto a tray, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to baking time.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Baking sheets with parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack

FAQ

Q1: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Q2: Can I use golden raisins?
Absolutely, they add a milder sweetness and softer texture.

Q3: Can I add other dried fruits?
Yes, dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots work well.

Q4: Can I make the cookies larger or smaller?
Yes, adjust baking time accordingly — larger cookies may need 12–14 minutes, smaller ones 8–10 minutes.

Q5: Can I omit the nuts?
Yes, they are optional and can be omitted for a nut-free version.

Conclusion

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon are a cozy, comforting treat that balances chewy oats, sweet raisins, and warm cinnamon. Perfect for holidays, snacks, or gifting, these cookies are easy to make yet full of flavor and texture. With endless variations and simple ingredients, they’re a classic cookie recipe that will become a staple in your baking repertoire.