Grandma Nora Erler'S Oatmeal Refrigerator Cookies
Grandma Nora Erler's Oatmeal Refrigerator Cookies are chewy, flavorful treats with a hint of vanilla and oatmeal, perfect for quick baking and sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening; add sugar and blend well.
- Blend in eggs and dry ingredients.
- Shape into a long roll 1 1/2 inches in diameter in waxed paper.
- Chill the rolled dough.
- Slice thinly from the chilled roll.
- Place slices on a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly healthier version, consider replacing half of the shortening with applesauce or using coconut oil instead. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for some of the all-purpose flour to add more fiber. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans. To ensure even baking, make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F (175°C).
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal refrigerator cookies are delightful on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumbled over yogurt with fresh fruit. They also make a wonderful treat to share during gatherings, complementing hearty dishes like Sunday Chili(Serve With Cornbread) for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover oatmeal cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Nora Erler'S Oatmeal Refrigerator Cookies contains roughly 1956 calories, with 29g protein, 265g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (161% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1331mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
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 rolled oats instead of quick cooking oatmeal?
Yes, you can use rolled oats, but the texture of the cookies may be chewier. If you prefer a softer cookie, consider pulsing the rolled oats in a food processor a few times to break them down slightly before adding them to the dough.
How can I make these cookies more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the dough. Dark chocolate chips work well, providing a rich taste that complements the oatmeal. You might also consider adding cocoa powder, but be sure to adjust the flour accordingly.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough helps to solidify the fats, which results in cookies that hold their shape better during baking. It also develops the flavors and can lead to a more tender cookie. If you're short on time, chilling for just 30 minutes can still yield good results.
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).