Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies
There’s something so comforting about a batch of homemade cookies, especially when they are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and chocolate. These Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also bring a delightful texture that makes each bite a treat. With a perfect balance of chewiness and crunch, these cookies are ideal for satisfying those sweet cravings or sharing with loved ones. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will surely become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The oats provide a hearty base, the walnuts add a lovely crunch, and the semi-sweet chocolate chips bring just the right amount of sweetness. Here’s why you’ll adore these cookies:
– They are easy to make and require simple ingredients.
– The combination of oats and nuts makes them feel a bit healthier.
– They store well, making them perfect for meal prep or a late-night snack.
– The cookies are versatile; you can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins.
What to Buy
Before you start baking, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Tools of the Trade
To make these cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools:
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key in baking.
- Electric mixer – to beat the butter and sugars until fluffy.
- Baking sheet – for placing your cookie dough.
- Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Wire rack – for cooling the cookies after baking.
Step-by-Step: Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help your cookies not stick and will make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set this aside for later.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until well combined. This adds richness and flavor to the cookie dough.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 7: Fold in Oats, Walnuts, and Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats, chopped walnuts, and semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Step 9: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies warm or store them in an airtight container for later!
Seasonal Spins
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try with your Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies:
- For a fall twist, add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and a sprinkle of nutmeg for Pumpkin Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity touch.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate, like dark or white chocolate chips.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
Sometimes baking can be tricky. Here are a few common issues you might encounter with your Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies and how to fix them:
- If the cookies spread too much, ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and take them out when they are just golden at the edges.
- If your cookies are too dry, try adding a bit more butter or an extra egg next time.
- For cookies that are too chewy, reduce the baking time slightly to allow them to set up without drying out.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
Want to enjoy these cookies later? Here’s how to make ahead:
- Prepare the cookie dough, scoop it into balls, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
- You can also prepare the dry ingredients in advance and keep them stored in a jar for quick cookie making on busy days.
Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While you can use quick oats, they will result in a different texture. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier consistency that’s ideal for these cookies.
Can I substitute the walnuts with something else?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with your favorite nuts or even omit them if you prefer nut-free cookies.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for the best results.
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That’s a Wrap
Baking a batch of Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies is not just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. Each bite is a combination of warmth, nostalgia, and the joy that comes from sharing homemade treats. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in these delightful cookies that are sure to please everyone. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Oatmeal-Walnut-Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the oats, walnuts, and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if cookies spread too much.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freeze cookie dough for up to 3 months for easy baking later.
