Altered Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

🍪 Altered Oatmeal Raisin Cookies 🍪

What is it?
Altered Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic oatmeal raisin cookies. They incorporate additional ingredients and variations to elevate the traditional recipe, resulting in a unique and flavorful treat.

History:
Oatmeal raisin cookies have been a beloved dessert for generations. They are thought to have originated in Scotland, where oats have long been a dietary staple. The addition of raisins likely came later, as raisins were introduced as a popular ingredient in baking during the 19th century. Altered versions of this classic cookie have emerged over time as bakers experimented with new ingredients and flavors.

Components:

• 1 cup of butter (softened)
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
• 1½ cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• 3 cups of old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup of raisins
• 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional)
• Additional mix-ins of your choice (chocolate chips, shredded coconut, dried cranberries, etc.)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.

6. Stir in the old-fashioned oats until they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

7. Now, you can get creative! Mix in your choice of additional ingredients such as raisins, chopped nuts, and any other mix-ins you desire.

8. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time Needed to Prepare:

• Preparation time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
• Baking time: 10-12 minutes per batch
• Cooling time: About 10 minutes

In total, you can expect to spend around 35-42 minutes making these delicious Altered Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Enjoy your delightful, customized treat with a cup of milk or your favorite beverage! 🥛🍪😊

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Altered Oatmeal Raisin Cookies (per serving, assuming 24 cookies in a batch):

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: Approximately 180-200 calories per cookie
• Total Fat: 8-10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 4-5 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4-5 grams
• Cholesterol: 25-30 milligrams
• Sodium: 100-120 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugars: 12-15 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Vitamins and Minerals: These values can vary based on ingredient choices, but oatmeal provides essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.

Health Information:

1. Oats: Oats are a good source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which can help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. They also provide a steady release of energy.

2. Raisins: Raisins add natural sweetness to the cookies without the need for excessive sugar. They also contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, though they are calorie-dense.

3. Moderation: While these cookies can be a delicious treat, they are still a sweet, calorie-dense food. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid excessive sugar and calorie intake.

4. Customization: The ability to customize the ingredients in this recipe allows you to make healthier choices. For example, you can reduce sugar, use whole wheat flour, or opt for lower-fat butter alternatives.

5. Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes. It’s easy to overindulge in cookies, so be mindful of how many you consume in one sitting.

6. Nuts and Mix-Ins: Adding nuts and other mix-ins can provide healthy fats, protein, and additional nutrients. However, be cautious if you have allergies or are watching your calorie intake.

7. Variations: Consider experimenting with healthier variations, such as using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.

Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.