Lou'S Oatmeal Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Lou's Oatmeal Cookies are chewy, nutty treats with a hint of vanilla and a dusting of powdered sugar. Filled with hearty oats and whole pecans, they are perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings. Their soft center and golden crust make them a timeless favorite for all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 c. sifted flour
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 tsp. soda
  • 2 c. brown sugar
  • 1 c. margarine
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 3 c. quick cooking oats
  • powdered sugar
  • whole pecans

Instructions

  1. Sift flour, salt, baking powder, and soda together three times.
  2. Cream brown sugar and margarine until well blended.
  3. Add beaten eggs and vanilla; beat well.
  4. Stir in sifted dry ingredients and oats.
  5. Form balls the size of walnuts and roll in powdered sugar until heavily coated.
  6. Place a whole pecan in the center of each ball and press down on a greased cookie sheet with a glass.
  7. Bake in a moderate oven at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly; cookies should still be soft when taken out.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular margarine. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with applesauce or maple syrup. To make these cookies gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading while baking.

Serving Suggestions

These oatmeal cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. For an indulgent dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They make a great addition to dessert platters or cookie exchanges, especially during the holidays.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lou'S Oatmeal Cookies contains roughly 241 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).

241 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.2g 10% DV
Total Fat 2.4g 3% DV
Carbs 49.5g 18% DV
Fiber 1.1g 4% DV
Sugar 4.4g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 189.9mg 8% DV
Potassium 168.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 53.4mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 17.4mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 64.8mg 5% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 oats?

Yes, you can use rolled oats, but the texture may be chewier. If you prefer a softer cookie, you might want to pulse the rolled oats in a food processor a few times to break them down slightly.

What can I substitute for margarine?

You can substitute margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.

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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