Gerry Lefevers Famous Oatmeal Cookies 🍪
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Yield: 60 cookies
Description:
These oatmeal cookies, famously made by Gerry Lefever, hold a special place in the hearts of many. Gerry’s sons would eagerly search the house for hidden cookie cans, while she lovingly baked batch after batch, ensuring no cookie jar stayed full for long. With a delightful mix of oats, currants, and a hint of vanilla, these cookies are a cherished treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shortening
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 cups oatmeal
- 1/2 cup currants
Instructions:
-
Cream Shortening and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy. -
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined. -
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the flour, salt, and baking soda to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the oatmeal, followed by the currants, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. -
Shape Dough into Rolls:
Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into a log shape. Wrap each log tightly in waxed paper and chill in the refrigerator until firm, typically for about 30 minutes. -
Slice and Bake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, slice the dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on ungreased cookie sheets, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking. -
Bake to Perfection:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-baking. -
Cool and Enjoy:
Allow the cookies to cool for a minute on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Gerry prefers her cookies slightly browned for that perfect crisp texture, but feel free to adjust the baking time to suit your preference.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 474.7
- Fat: 22.3g
- Saturated Fat: 5.2g
- Cholesterol: 35.2mg
- Sodium: 357.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 63.8g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Sugar: 37g
- Protein: 7g
Recipe Notes:
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, though they rarely last that long!
- Feel free to customize the add-ins to suit your taste preferences. Swap out the currants for raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts for a different flavor profile.
- For a chewier texture, slightly under-bake the cookies and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring.
- Don’t forget to share these delectable treats with friends and family, just like Gerry Lefever did with her loved ones! Enjoy every nostalgic bite.
