It all started in a cozy kitchen, with the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make—and the scent of cinnamon rolls drifting through the air. Cooking here isn’t just about food—it’s a collection of gestures and stories, a rhythm you can hear in the gentle tap of a wooden spoon or the soft stir of oatmeal cookie dough in a well-loved bowl. These are the silent symphonies that play out in American home kitchens, where every dish tells a tale.
From the golden cornbread of the South to New England’s creamy chowder, we fell in love with the warmth and stories behind every American classic. Baking these oatmeal cookies with Quaker Oats feels like following a tradition—a simple act that transforms a handful of pantry staples into something comforting, chewy, and deeply familiar.
Here at Recipes Oats, we believe American cooking isn’t just about recipes—it’s about the way a grandmother passes down her secrets, or how friends gather to share laughter around a cookie-filled tray on a rainy afternoon. Our site is your table, and you’re always welcome to pull up a chair. If you love the soulful, satisfying art of American cooking, you’re in the right place. Don’t miss our easy drop cookie guide for even more ways to bring warmth and flavor to your kitchen.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Quaker Oats oatmeal cookies from scratch—discovering the secrets to that signature chewy texture, the best mix-ins, expert baking tips, and answers to all your oatmeal cookie questions. Whether you’re baking for your family or just for yourself, let’s celebrate the simple magic of homemade cookies—one gesture, one bite, one story at a time.
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Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make—soft, chewy, and easy! Get the best tips, mix-ins, and baking secrets for homemade oatmeal cookies.
Ingredients
- 14 tablespoons butter softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar firmly packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoons salt optional
- 3 cups Quaker Oats quick or old-fashioned, uncooked
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, beat butter and sugars on medium speed of electric mixer until creamy.
- Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.
- Add combined flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt; mix well.
- Add oats and raisins; mix well.
- Drop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets; remove to wire rack. Cool completely. Store tightly covered. Makes about 4 dozen cookies.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, do not overbake.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Feel free to add nuts or other mix-ins as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: quaker oats, oatmeal cookies, cookie recipe, easy cookies
Table of Contents
Why Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookies Are a Classic Treat
The Popularity of Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookies
Across American kitchens, the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe stands as a beloved tradition. For decades, families have relied on this recipe for a reason—it’s consistent, wholesome, and never fails to delight. There’s a kind of nostalgia baked into each chewy bite. Every batch draws on that classic combination of oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon, blending flavors and textures that remind us of simpler times.
Unlike ordinary cookies, oatmeal cookies bring more than just sweetness to the table. The heartiness of oats delivers a satisfying chew and a hint of nuttiness that’s hard to resist. As you mix the dough, you can almost hear generations of home bakers doing the same, passing down their own versions and adding their own special touches. It’s no wonder that oatmeal cookies remain a go-to recipe for holiday gatherings, school lunches, and quiet evenings alike.
Learn more about classic cookie traditions with our ultimate drop cookie roundup.
Health Benefits of Baking with Oats
It’s easy to see why so many people turn to Quaker Oats when making cookies. Oats aren’t just delicious—they’re incredibly good for you, too. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals, oats help make every bite a little more nourishing. Including oats in your baking can promote heart health, provide lasting energy, and help keep you full longer than other traditional cookie bases.
But the benefits go beyond just nutrition. Oats also add a natural richness to your cookies, boosting their flavor without the need for artificial ingredients or excess sugar. Whether you’re choosing quick oats or old-fashioned oats, you’re starting with a wholesome foundation that elevates your baking. Many home bakers appreciate that by making Quaker Oats oatmeal cookies, they’re serving up something tasty and just a little bit better for their families.
Baking with oats means celebrating the best of American kitchen traditions—comfort, simplicity, and just the right touch of healthy goodness. Discover great ideas like our healthy oatmeal breakfast bar recipe to expand your oat repertoire and bring more whole grains into your home.
Must-Have Ingredients for Amazing Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookies
The Role of Every Ingredient in Your Batch
Getting the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make just right starts with understanding how each ingredient brings something special to the table. Every piece of this recipe has a purpose—some add structure, others create flavor, and a few simply make every bite memorable.
Butter, Softened: Butter gives oatmeal cookies their classic softness and rich taste. Starting with it at room temperature ensures a smooth, creamy base that’s easy to blend with sugars.
Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar: Using both types of sugar is key. Brown sugar holds in moisture, making your cookies soft and chewy, while granulated sugar adds that satisfying bite on the edges.
Eggs: Eggs bind all the ingredients together and help your cookies hold their shape while staying tender inside.
Vanilla Extract: Even a dash of vanilla can completely transform your cookie dough, making each bite smell and taste more inviting.
All-Purpose Flour: This flour is the structure behind the cookie, giving it shape without weighing it down.
Baking Soda: Baking soda acts as the lift, so your cookies bake up just puffy enough to be satisfying without getting too dense.
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon delivers a layer of warmth that pairs beautifully with oats and raisins, creating that classic aroma everyone loves.
Salt (Optional): While not essential, a little salt can highlight sweetness and balance flavors throughout the batch.
Quaker Oats (Quick or Old-Fashioned): Oats are the heart of this cookie. They bring texture, chewiness, and wholesome flavor—no oatmeal cookie is complete without them.
Raisins: Raisins provide little pockets of sweetness in every bite. Not a raisin fan? Swap them for dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or even chopped nuts for a personal twist.
Simple Swaps and Creative Add-Ins
The best part about a classic oatmeal cookie recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. If you need to adapt for allergies or just want to try something different, here are a few smart swaps and creative mix-ins:
- Gluten-Free: Switch the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Try plant-based butter to keep things rich and tender without dairy.
- Egg-Free: Use a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to hold your dough together naturally.
- Sugar Reduction: If you’d like, cut back on the sugars by a few tablespoons—your cookies will still turn out chewy and satisfying.
- Flavor Boosters: Toss in a pinch of nutmeg, orange zest, or shredded coconut for a new spin.
- Mix-Ins: Besides raisins, chocolate chips, toasted nuts, or white chocolate chunks are all welcome additions.
Baking is about making recipes work for you and your loved ones. Whether you stick to the classic or put your own spin on it, this recipe is a reliable base for dozens of cookie creations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookies
Preparing the Dough: Mix and Blend Like a Pro
Making the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make begins with the basics—gathering your ingredients and setting up your kitchen. Before you start, make sure your butter is softened and your eggs are at room temperature for best results. Begin by beating the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together in a large bowl. This step helps to create a creamy, smooth mixture and ensures every cookie comes out with a tender bite.
Next, add in your eggs one at a time, along with the vanilla extract. Mix until the dough is light and fluffy, taking care not to overmix. In a separate bowl, combine your flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt if you’re using it. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, blending just until combined. The real magic happens when you fold in the Quaker oats and raisins—this is what gives the cookies their signature texture and sweet bursts of flavor.
Baking Techniques: How to Nail the Perfect Texture
With your dough ready, it’s time to shape and bake. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, making sure to leave some space between each one, as these cookies will spread slightly while baking. For consistent results, try to keep each scoop about the same size. If you like your cookies extra chewy, press the dough gently to flatten before baking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they’re just turning golden around the edges. Keep a close eye—overbaking can lead to dry cookies, while pulling them out when they’re slightly underdone will give you that soft, chewy center everyone loves. Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for a minute or two before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Finally, once your cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days. These cookies are perfect for lunchboxes, holiday platters, or anytime you want a taste of something homemade and comforting.
Choosing Between Quick Oats and Old-Fashioned Oats
Texture and Flavor: How Your Choice of Oats Impacts the Cookie
One of the most common questions about the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make is whether to use quick oats or old-fashioned oats. Both types will deliver delicious cookies, but the texture and flavor will differ, and that choice comes down to your personal preference.
Old-fashioned oats are larger and less processed, which means they hold their shape during baking and give your cookies a hearty, chewy texture. They also provide a slightly nuttier, fuller flavor—ideal for those who want their cookies to have a rustic, homemade feel.
Quick oats, on the other hand, are cut finer and steam-cooked before rolling, which helps them blend more seamlessly into the dough. Cookies made with quick oats tend to be a bit softer and more uniform in texture, with less noticeable pieces of oat. The flavor is still wholesome, but the cookies will have a smoother, more bakery-style finish.
Tips for Picking the Best Oats for Your Batch
If you’re aiming for cookies that are chewy with plenty of texture, reach for old-fashioned oats. They hold up well to mix-ins like raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips, and give each bite a satisfying bite. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer, tender cookie that almost melts in your mouth, quick oats are the way to go.
Some bakers even like to combine both types—using half quick oats and half old-fashioned oats—to strike a balance between chewiness and softness. Whichever you choose, always use high-quality Quaker oats for consistent, reliable results.
Remember, oats are the heart of every classic oatmeal cookie recipe, so experimenting with both can help you discover your favorite style. If you’re curious to see the difference for yourself, try baking two small batches side by side using each type and compare the results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
Overbaking and Undermixing: What to Watch Out For
No matter how simple a Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make might seem, a few easy missteps can keep your cookies from reaching that perfect chewy, golden finish. One of the most frequent problems is overbaking. Pulling your cookies out of the oven just as the edges turn light golden brown—while the centers may still look a little soft—will give you the classic chewy texture. Leave them in too long, and they’ll firm up too much as they cool, leading to a dry, crumbly result.
Another common error is undermixing or overmixing the dough. If the butter and sugars aren’t fully creamed together, your cookies may spread unevenly or bake up dense. On the other hand, overmixing after adding flour can develop too much gluten, resulting in tough cookies instead of tender ones. Mixing just until ingredients are combined is the sweet spot for a batch that’s soft and satisfying.
Preventing Dryness and Crumbling: Tips for Consistent Success
It’s easy to end up with cookies that are drier than you’d like, especially if you forget to measure your flour properly or skimp on the butter. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off, rather than scooping, to avoid using too much. And don’t cut corners with the butter—using the full amount keeps cookies rich and moist.
Also, be mindful of your oats. Using old-fashioned oats adds chew, but if your dough feels extra stiff, try adding a splash of milk or water to loosen things up. On humid days, your dough may already be softer, so make adjustments as needed. Lastly, always store your cookies in an airtight container as soon as they’ve cooled to keep them from drying out.
Baking is a learning process, and small tweaks can make a big difference.

How to Make Oatmeal Cookies Taste Even Better
Add-Ins: Elevate Your Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
If you want to take the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make to the next level, try experimenting with flavorful add-ins. The classic combination of oats and raisins is timeless, but there’s no reason to stop there! Adding in chocolate chips, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries instantly changes the flavor profile and keeps every batch exciting.
Some bakers love mixing in white chocolate chunks, coconut flakes, or even butterscotch chips. Chopped pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch, while a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can balance out the sweetness and add a gourmet touch. If you enjoy a more indulgent cookie, consider swirling in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter or a handful of toffee bits for extra richness.
Experimenting with different add-ins is a simple way to personalize your cookies. Each combination creates a new taste experience and gives your classic oatmeal cookie recipe a signature twist. Looking for inspiration? Try our list of unique oatmeal cookie mix-ins for your next baking day.
Spices and Flavor Boosters for Extra Depth
A good oatmeal cookie is never bland. For a bold, aromatic touch, consider going beyond cinnamon. Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the dough. These spices pair beautifully with oats and brown sugar, enhancing every bite with warmth and depth.
For a fresh spin, zest a little orange or lemon right into your dough—citrus zest brightens the flavor and makes your cookies taste bakery-fresh. A touch of molasses or honey can also deepen the flavor and help keep the cookies moist. If you love a strong vanilla presence, don’t be shy about adding an extra splash—vanilla extract brings all the other flavors together.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of a little salt. Just a pinch can bring out the sweetness and make your cookies even more crave-worthy. Baking is all about finding your own favorite combination, so try a few tweaks each time and discover which flavors make your oatmeal cookies truly unforgettable.
Achieving Soft and Chewy Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make Every Time
Baking Tips for Soft and Chewy Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make
If you want a batch of cookies that stands out, getting the texture right in your Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make is essential. A truly soft and chewy cookie is the result of a few smart baking choices. When preparing your Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make, always use room-temperature butter. This simple step helps your dough blend easily, which is key for a classic Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make.
The ratio of sugars in your Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make matters, too. Brown sugar locks in moisture, while granulated sugar provides just the right amount of crispness at the edges. If you follow the classic Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make, you’ll notice that brown sugar is always present for a reason—it keeps cookies soft longer.
When baking the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make, take the cookies out of the oven just as the edges turn golden but the centers still look slightly soft. Letting them finish on the baking sheet is a pro move in the world of Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipes you’ll love to make. If you leave the cookies in too long, they’ll become crunchy instead of chewy, and the signature texture of your Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make will be lost.
Storing and Keeping Your Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make Fresh
Even the best Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make can go stale if not stored correctly. For cookies that stay as soft as the day they were baked, let your Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make cool completely before moving them to an airtight container. For even more lasting softness, add a slice of bread or a few marshmallows to the container with your batch of Quaker Oats oatmeal cookies you’ll love to make—the cookies will draw moisture from them, keeping the texture just right.
Your Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make can also be frozen if you want to bake ahead. Just layer baked cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy your Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make all over again.
Following these tips ensures every Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make comes out soft, chewy, and packed with homemade flavor. For even more secrets to perfect cookies, don’t miss our full guide to storing homemade cookies and other classic Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe tips.
Serving, Pairing, and Enjoying Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make
Best Ways to Serve Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make
When you pull a batch of Quaker Oats oatmeal cookies from your oven, you’re not just serving dessert—you’re creating a moment. This Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make works for all kinds of occasions, from family get-togethers to cozy nights in. Serve these cookies warm from the oven on a classic plate, or tuck them into a festive cookie jar for a nostalgic touch. These cookies make thoughtful gifts and are always the first to disappear at any bake sale.
For a playful twist, use the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make as the base for cookie sandwiches. Just add a dollop of creamy peanut butter, marshmallow fluff, or your favorite frosting between two cookies. You can even drizzle the top with a vanilla glaze or dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for a bakery-worthy finish.
Pairings: Beverages and Fun Ideas for Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make
The Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make pairs perfectly with nearly any drink. Serve these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for the ultimate classic pairing, or offer them alongside hot coffee or spiced chai for a cozy treat. These cookies also shine when crumbled over ice cream, layered in a yogurt parfait, or simply enjoyed with fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
If you’re looking to impress guests, try presenting a cookie platter with several variations of the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make—some with chocolate chips, others with dried fruit or nuts. This makes for a beautiful spread that offers something for everyone and showcases the versatility of this classic recipe.
Conclusion: Enjoy Baking the Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe You’ll Love to Make
Baking at home is about more than following instructions—it’s about creating moments, sharing warmth, and building memories one batch at a time. The Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe you’ll love to make captures all that, delivering soft, chewy cookies that taste like comfort and tradition in every bite.
From understanding your ingredients to mastering baking techniques and trying new flavor twists, you now have all the tools you need to create the perfect oatmeal cookie in your own kitchen. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your own creative spin, this recipe is built to bring joy to your table again and again.
If you’re craving more inspiration, discover great ideas like our healthy oatmeal bar recipes or check out our troubleshooting guide for even more tips to perfect your next batch. Remember, each time you bake is a chance to experiment, enjoy, and share the simple pleasure of homemade cookies.
So preheat your oven, gather your favorite mix-ins, and treat yourself and your loved ones to the timeless taste of homemade Quaker Oats oatmeal cookies. Happy baking!
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FAQs about Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
Should I bake oatmeal cookies with quick oats or old-fashioned oats?
The answer depends on your desired cookie texture. Quick oats break down easily in the dough, resulting in cookies that are soft and have a more uniform bite. Old-fashioned oats, on the other hand, retain their shape and give each cookie a heartier chew and a more rustic look. If you prefer cookies with lots of texture and visible oats, old-fashioned is the way to go. But if you enjoy a smoother, more classic cookie, quick oats are a great choice. You can even mix the two types for a custom feel in your next batch of Quaker Oats oatmeal cookies.
What mistakes should I avoid when making oatmeal cookies?
A few missteps can get in the way of great cookies. Overbaking is the most common one—take cookies out of the oven while they still look a little soft in the middle, because they’ll keep cooking as they cool. Another pitfall is adding too much flour; always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Creaming the butter and sugars thoroughly is key to a light, soft texture, and don’t rush this step. Finally, don’t skip the resting time for the dough—giving it a few minutes before baking helps flavors blend and the texture develop.
What are some easy ways to make oatmeal cookies taste better?
There’s no limit to how creative you can get with a classic oatmeal cookie recipe. Stir in chocolate chips, butterscotch bits, or even a handful of chopped nuts for a new layer of flavor. Warm spices like nutmeg or a dash of allspice can add depth. If you love fruit, dried cranberries or cherries are a delicious swap for raisins. For something special, finish cookies with a sprinkle of flaky salt or a drizzle of vanilla glaze once they’re cool.
How do you make oatmeal cookies soft and chewy instead of dry?
Achieving soft and chewy oatmeal cookies starts with a few baking habits. Use more brown sugar than white, since brown sugar adds moisture. Don’t overmix once the dry ingredients go in—stop as soon as the flour disappears. Keep an eye on bake time; underbake slightly for cookies that stay chewy as they cool. After baking, store cookies in a tightly sealed container with a slice of bread, which helps them hold onto their softness for days.