Nellie'S Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies
Chewy, fragrant oatmeal cookies loaded with raisins, nuts, and warm spices, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and enjoying with a glass of milk or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer raisins and water for 20 to 30 minutes; cool.
- Drain water off and add enough water to make 1/2 cup.
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cream shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla; beat well.
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to creamed mixture, mixing well.
- Stir in rolled oats, nuts, and raisins.
- Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, soak the oats in a little water or milk for 10 minutes before mixing them in. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with equal parts butter or coconut oil. Consider adding chocolate chips or coconut flakes for added flavor. Always taste the batter before baking to adjust spices like cinnamon and cloves to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal cookies are delightful on their own or served alongside a glass of milk or a steaming cup of Hot Chocolate(From Scratch). For an extra treat, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nellie'S Old-Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies contains roughly 365 calories, with 4g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 554mg per serving (24% 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 quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture of the cookies may be less chewy. Rolled oats provide a heartier bite, while quick oats will create a softer cookie. Adjust baking time as needed since quick oats may absorb moisture differently.
What can I substitute for raisins?
If you prefer not to use raisins, dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips can work well. Each will give a unique flavor profile while maintaining the sweetness of the cookie. Just ensure any substitute is chopped to similar sizes to ensure even baking.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil. Ensure that your sugar is vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
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).