This Mennonite oatmeal raisin cookies recipe also adapts easily—swap raisins for cranberries, add walnuts for crunch, or drizzle with maple glaze for an indulgent twist. And because it’s a simple one-bowl dough, it’s as practical as it is delicious. These cookies freeze well, travel beautifully, and taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Whether you’re baking for comfort, nostalgia, or to fill your kitchen with that unmistakable home-baked aroma, Mennonite oatmeal raisin cookies are pure, classic goodness made to be shared.
Storage Options
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain softness.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Dough Storage: Refrigerate dough for up to 48 hours or freeze unbaked balls for quick, fresh-baked cookies later.
Summary
Soft, chewy, and warmly spiced, Mennonite oatmeal raisin cookies combine brown sugar, oats, and raisins for a classic treat that’s timeless, comforting, and easy to make at home.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 cups (270 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups (210 g) raisins (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes, then drained)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Mix the dough: Gradually add dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Fold in oats and drained raisins.
- Scoop and bake: Drop dough by rounded tablespoons (or use a cookie scoop) onto prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are soft. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to racks.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake and let them finish setting on the pan.
- Use rolled oats, not instant oats, for ideal texture and structure.
- Soaking raisins ensures they stay plump and flavorful after baking.
Tips for Success
- Room temperature ingredients: Butter and eggs should be soft for smooth mixing.
- Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour, stir gently to avoid tough cookies.
- Uniform size: Use a cookie scoop for even baking and perfect shape.
- Let rest: Allow cookies to cool slightly before removing—they’ll set as they cool.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Add nuts: Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for deeper flavor.
- Healthier option: Replace half the butter with applesauce and use whole wheat flour.
- Mix-ins: Try chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or coconut flakes for fun twists.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are my cookies dry?
Overbaking or adding too much flour can dry them out. Bake until just set and use proper measuring techniques.
Can I use quick oats?
Yes, but they’ll yield a slightly softer texture. Old-fashioned oats are preferred for a chewier bite.
Do I need to soak the raisins?
It’s optional but highly recommended—it keeps raisins juicy and prevents them from hardening during baking.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Roll dough into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in bags. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to bake time.
Conclusion
Simple, nostalgic, and perfectly spiced, Mennonite oatmeal raisin cookies bring homemade comfort to every occasion. With chewy oats, plump raisins, and that golden, buttery aroma, this recipe captures everything you love about traditional baking—one warm bite at a time.