🍪 Andrea’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies 🍪
What is it?
Andrea’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a delightful and classic type of cookie. They are soft, chewy, and packed with the wholesome goodness of oats and the natural sweetness of raisins. These cookies are a beloved treat that combines the nutty flavor of oats with the fruity sweetness of raisins.
History:
Oatmeal cookies, in general, have a long history dating back to the Middle Ages when oats were a common grain in Scotland. However, the specific origins of the oatmeal raisin cookie are a bit harder to pinpoint. They likely evolved from traditional oat cakes and oat biscuits that were common in Europe. The addition of raisins to oat-based cookies probably came later, as raisins were a popular dried fruit in many cultures.
Components:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups raisins
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
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Add Oats and Raisins: Stir in the rolled oats and raisins. The dough should be thick and well-mixed.
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Form Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. You can use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
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Enjoy: Once cooled, indulge in the deliciousness of Andrea’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies!
Time Needed:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Baking: 10-12 minutes per batch
- Cooling: Variable, depending on room temperature
In total, you can expect to spend around 30-40 minutes preparing and baking these scrumptious cookies. So, go ahead and enjoy the warm, comforting aroma and taste of these homemade oatmeal raisin cookies! 🍪😊
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Andrea’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximate values):
- Calories: 120-150 kcal
- Total Fat: 4-6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
- Sodium: 50-80 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18-20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 10-12 grams
- Protein: 2-3 grams
Health Information:
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Moderate Calories: Each cookie contains a moderate amount of calories, making it a suitable occasional treat.
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Moderate Fat Content: These cookies have a moderate amount of fat, with most of it coming from butter. Be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your fat intake.
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Sugar Content: The sugar content is relatively high due to the presence of brown sugar and raisins. Enjoy these cookies in moderation if you’re concerned about sugar intake.
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Fiber: Oatmeal provides some dietary fiber, which can contribute to a feeling of fullness and digestive health.
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Protein: While not a significant source of protein, these cookies do provide a small amount.
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Micronutrients: Oats contain vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins.
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Antioxidants: Raisins, though sweet, provide some antioxidants and dietary fiber.
Health Tips:
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Enjoy these cookies as an occasional treat, not as a daily snack, due to their sugar and calorie content.
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If you want to make them slightly healthier, consider reducing the sugar and using whole wheat flour for added fiber.
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Pair these cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of herbal tea for a cozy and satisfying snack.
Remember that specific nutrition facts can vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used, so it’s a good idea to check product labels and adjust the recipe to meet your dietary needs and preferences.