Andrea’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

🍪 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:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. 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.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

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

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

6. Add Oats and Raisins: Stir in the rolled oats and raisins. The dough should be thick and well-mixed.

7. Form Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. You can use parchment paper for easy cleanup.

8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

10. 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:

• Moderate Calories: Each cookie contains a moderate amount of calories, making it a suitable occasional treat.

• 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.

• 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.

• Fiber: Oatmeal provides some dietary fiber, which can contribute to a feeling of fullness and digestive health.

• Protein: While not a significant source of protein, these cookies do provide a small amount.

• Micronutrients: Oats contain vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins.

• Antioxidants: Raisins, though sweet, provide some antioxidants and dietary fiber.

Health Tips:

• Enjoy these cookies as an occasional treat, not as a daily snack, due to their sugar and calorie content.

• If you want to make them slightly healthier, consider reducing the sugar and using whole wheat flour for added fiber.

• 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.