Famous Oatmeal Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

These famous oatmeal cookies are a nostalgic treat, boasting a chewy texture and a perfect balance of sweetness from brown and granulated sugars. With hearty oats and a hint of vanilla, they are ideal for cookie lovers seeking a comforting, homemade snack. Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 c. vegetable shortening
  • 1 c. firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 c. granulated sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 c. water
  • 1 c. all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. soda
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 3 c. oats, uncooked

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°.
  2. Beat together shortening, sugars, egg, water, and vanilla until creamy.
  3. Add combined remaining ingredients; mix well.
  4. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet.
  5. Bake at 350° for 12 to 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a chewier texture, try using half butter and half shortening. If you don't have vegetable shortening, coconut oil can be a good substitute. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. Be sure to use old-fashioned oats for the best results, as quick oats can make the cookies too soft. For more delicious cookie ideas, browse more American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

These oatmeal cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a fun twist, try crumbling them over vanilla ice cream or pairing them with a slice of Deep Dark Chocolate Cake for a decadent dessert platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Famous Oatmeal Cookies contains roughly 103 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

103 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 1.4g 2% DV
Carbs 18.7g 7% DV
Fiber 0.9g 3% DV
Sugar 3.1g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 353.7mg 15% DV
Potassium 111.6mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 21.3mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.7mg 4% DV
Calcium 31.6mg 2% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

While you can use quick oats, they will yield a different texture. Quick oats tend to absorb moisture faster and may make the cookies softer. For the best results, stick to old-fashioned oats, which provide a chewier bite.

How can I make these cookies healthier?

To make these cookies healthier, consider substituting half of the granulated sugar with applesauce or using a sugar alternative like honey or maple syrup. You can also add in some flaxseed or chia seeds for added nutrition without compromising flavor.

What can I do if my dough is too dry?

If your dough seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water or milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as it may alter the texture of the cookies.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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