Oatmeal Cookies With a Peel

Looking for a delicious and healthy sweet treat? Look no further than oatmeal cookies with a peel!

These cookies are packed with wholesome oats and fresh fruit, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious treats that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

So why wait? Get ready to enjoy the perfect combination of chewy oats and fruity goodness!

Origins

You can trace the origins of oatmeal cookies back to the early 19th century. These delightful treats first emerged in Scotland, where oats were abundant and easily accessible. The Scottish bakers discovered that by combining oats with other simple ingredients such as butter, sugar, and flour, they could create a delicious and satisfying snack.

These early versions of oatmeal cookies were typically made using a simple drop-cookie method, where spoonfuls of dough were placed onto a baking sheet and baked until golden brown. Over time, oatmeal cookies spread in popularity and began to evolve with different variations, including the addition of raisins, nuts, and spices.

Today, oatmeal cookies continue to be a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages around the world.

Ingredients for Oatmeal Cookies With a Peel

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds, etc.) (optional)
• 1/4 cup citrus peel (orange, lemon, or a mix), finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and stir until just combined.

5. Fold in the rolled oats, followed by the raisins or dried cranberries, nuts, and chopped citrus peel.

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

7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the centers are set.

8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Cooking

First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Now that you’re ready to start baking your oatmeal cookies, here are some helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly.

1. Use room temperature ingredients: This allows for better incorporation and distribution of the ingredients, resulting in a smoother batter.

2. Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture.

3. Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent spreading and results in thicker, chewier cookies.

Final Thoughts

For the best results and a satisfying baking experience, here are some final tips to keep in mind when making oatmeal cookies.

• First, remember to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading.

• Secondly, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to ensure tender cookies.

• Additionally, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

• Lastly, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them in an airtight container. This will help them stay chewy and delicious for days.

Enjoy your homemade oatmeal cookies!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats in This Recipe?

You can substitute instant oats for rolled oats in this recipe. They will work well and provide a slightly different texture to your oatmeal cookies. Enjoy your tasty treats!

How Long Do These Oatmeal Cookies Stay Fresh?

How long do these oatmeal cookies stay fresh? They stay fresh for approximately 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. It is important to keep them away from moisture and heat to maintain their freshness.

Can I Substitute the Butter With Margarine or Oil?

Yes, you can use margarine or oil as a substitute for butter. This substitution will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies, but it should still be successful. It is important to use the same amount of margarine or oil as the recipe calls for.

Are These Oatmeal Cookies Suitable for Freezing?

Yes, these oatmeal cookies can be frozen. Be sure to allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will remain fresh for up to 3 months.

Can I Add Raisins or Nuts to the Recipe?

You can absolutely include raisins or nuts in the recipe! They will provide the oatmeal cookies with a delightful texture and additional taste. Simply incorporate them into the other ingredients prior to baking. Enjoy!