Oatmeal Gems
Delight in these sweet, oat-filled cookies with a hint of cinnamon and strawberry preserves, perfect for satisfying cravings or serving at gatherings. Crispy edges, chewy centers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter or margarine and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Blend in eggs and vanilla.
- Add combined flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- Stir in oats.
- Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Indent the center of each cookie.
- Fill each indentation with 1/4 teaspoon of strawberry preserves.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let stand for 2 minutes before removing from the cookie sheet.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or using a flavored butter. If you want a healthier twist, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You can also mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar slightly. Make sure to use old-fashioned oats for the best chewy texture.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal gems are delicious on their own but can also be served alongside a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy treat. They make a perfect addition to a dessert platter with other favorites like Refrigerator Nut Wafers. For a fun twist, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oatmeal Gems contains roughly 930 calories, with 21g protein, 183g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (51% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1361mg per serving (59% 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 old-fashioned oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats in this recipe, but the texture of the cookies will be slightly different—more tender and less chewy. If you prefer a heartier cookie, stick with old-fashioned oats for the best results.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free oatmeal gems, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free, as some brands may be processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing grains.
Can I replace the strawberry preserves with another flavor?
Absolutely! You can use any fruit preserves or jam you prefer, such as raspberry, apricot, or even lemon curd for a zesty twist. Just be mindful of the sweetness level, as some preserves are sweeter than others.
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).