Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cakes
Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cakes are moist, flavorful cookies filled with raisins and warm spices, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease cookie sheets.
- In a small pan, bring raisins and water to boil.
- Drain, reserving 1/4 cup liquid; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat brown sugar, 1/2 cup shortening, and margarine until fluffy.
- Add eggs and egg yolk; beat well.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves; blend well.
- Add the flour mixture and reserved liquid to the sugar mixture; mix well.
- Stir in oats and raisins.
- Drop by heaping tablespoonfuls 3 inches apart onto cookie sheets.
- Bake at 350°F for 13 to 18 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool for 2 minutes.
- Remove from pan and cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the dough. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with additional margarine or butter. To enhance sweetness, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of nutmeg. Make sure to let the cakes cool on the cookie sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling.
Serving Suggestions
These oatmeal cakes are delightful on their own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving alongside Grandma'S Famous Gingerbread for a comforting spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover oatmeal cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week. You can also freeze them by wrapping individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cakes contains roughly 332 calories, with 4g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 584mg per serving (25% 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 old-fashioned oats instead of quick cooking oats?
Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats, but the texture of the cakes may be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats will create a chewier texture, which can be a delightful variation. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if needed, as they may require a few extra minutes to bake.
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can make a simple substitute by mixing granulated sugar with a bit of molasses. For every cup of brown sugar needed, use 1 cup of granulated sugar plus 1 tablespoon of molasses. This will provide similar moisture and flavor to the oatmeal cakes.
Can I make these oatmeal cakes vegan?
Absolutely! To make these oatmeal cakes vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce. Use all margarine instead of shortening, and ensure that your margarine is dairy-free. This will keep the flavor intact while accommodating a vegan diet.
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).