Auntie Sharon’s Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

🍪 Auntie Sharon’s Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies 🍪

What is it?
Auntie Sharon’s Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful and timeless treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oatmeal with the irresistible sweetness of chocolate chips. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them a favorite for both young and old alike.

History:
The exact origins of the oatmeal chocolate chip cookie are a bit hazy, but the concept of combining oatmeal and chocolate likely came about in the mid-20th century. Oatmeal cookies themselves have been around for a long time, with oat-based recipes dating back centuries. The addition of chocolate chips to the classic oatmeal cookie likely occurred as a variation to the traditional oatmeal cookie recipe. It has since become a beloved classic in the world of cookies.

Components:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 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 oats
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Steps to Prepare:

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

2. Cream the 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 the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

5. Add Oats and Chocolate Chips: Stir in the old-fashioned oats and chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.

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

Time Needed:

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

In total, you can expect to spend around 35-45 minutes preparing and baking Auntie Sharon’s Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies. This time may vary slightly based on your experience and kitchen setup. Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a big glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage! 🥛🍪😊

Certainly! Here’s some nutrition and health information for Auntie Sharon’s Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 100-150 calories per cookie, depending on the size.
• Total Fat: 5-7 grams
• Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
• Cholesterol: 15-25 mg
• Sodium: 70-100 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12-15 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugars: 7-10 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams

These values can vary based on the exact ingredients and serving size. Keep in mind that the provided nutritional information is approximate.

Health Information:

1. Oatmeal Benefits: Oats are a good source of dietary fiber and contain beta-glucans, which may help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. They also provide long-lasting energy and a feeling of fullness.

2. Chocolate in Moderation: The semisweet chocolate chips add a delicious flavor to the cookies but also contribute to their sugar and fat content. Enjoying such cookies in moderation can be a satisfying treat.

3. Portion Control: Cookies are typically high in calories and sugars. While they can be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, it’s essential to practice portion control to maintain a balanced diet.

4. Variations: You can make these cookies slightly healthier by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or incorporating ingredients like nuts or dried fruits for added nutrients.

5. Allergens: Be mindful of allergens in the recipe, such as gluten from the flour and dairy from the butter. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, consider suitable substitutions.

Remember that the nutritional value and health impact can vary depending on the exact ingredients and recipe variations you choose. Balancing indulgent treats like these cookies with a well-rounded diet and exercise is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy your cookies responsibly! 🍪🥛😊