Soft & Chewy Quaker Oats Cookie Recipe You’ll Bake Again and Again

If you’re anything like me, there’s nothing more comforting than the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. And when it comes to classic, crowd-pleasing treats, this soft and chewy Quaker oats cookie recipe is a true winner. Packed with wholesome oats, a hint of sweetness, and that perfect chewy texture we all crave, these cookies are a staple you’ll find yourself making on repeat. Whether you’re baking for your family, prepping snacks for the week, or simply treating yourself, this go-to recipe is easy to follow and always delivers delicious results.

Why Quaker Oats Cookies Are a Must-Try

Quaker Oats cookies are more than just a tasty treat—they’re a wholesome indulgence packed with benefits that set them apart from your average cookie. First and foremost, the star ingredient, oats, is a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in fiber, especially beta-glucan, oats support heart health, aid digestion, and keep you feeling full longer. This makes these cookies a more satisfying snack option compared to many sugar-loaded alternatives.

But it’s not just about health—Quaker Oats cookies are incredibly versatile too. Whether you prefer them chewy or crispy, with raisins, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt, the basic oat cookie recipe can be easily customized to suit any taste. They’re also a great option for those who enjoy baking, as the ingredients are simple and pantry-friendly.

Another reason to love these cookies is the nostalgic comfort they bring. Many people grew up with the familiar aroma of freshly baked oatmeal cookies wafting through the house. That warm, homey feeling is part of what makes them so beloved.

And finally, let’s not forget the convenience factor. Quaker’s pre-measured oats and reliable recipes make baking nearly foolproof—even for beginners. With minimal effort, you get maximum flavor, a perfect balance of chewy texture and subtle sweetness that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a way to get your kids excited about whole grains, Quaker Oats cookies are a must-try that delivers on both flavor and function.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need

To make classic Quaker Oats cookies, you’ll only need a handful of everyday ingredients—but don’t let the simplicity fool you. Each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of chewiness, flavor, and warmth.

• Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – The heart of the cookie! These provide a chewy texture, a nutty flavor, and are packed with fiber. Quaker’s rolled oats are ideal for holding the cookie together while giving it that signature bite.
• All-Purpose Flour – A staple for structure, flour gives the cookies their form while working in harmony with the oats for the perfect density.
• Brown Sugar – Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps keep the cookies soft and moist. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on how rich you want the flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the sweetness and gives the edges of the cookies a slight crisp.
• Butter – Provides richness and depth of flavor. Use unsalted butter to better control the salt content in your recipe.
• Eggs – Act as a binder and add moisture, ensuring the cookies stay tender on the inside.
• Vanilla Extract – A splash of vanilla brings out the warm, cozy flavors and ties all the ingredients together.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay fluffy, not flat or dense.
• Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins: This is where you can get creative! Classic choices include raisins, chocolate chips, nuts, coconut flakes, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a little spice.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Baking Quaker Oats cookies is simple and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, these easy steps will guide you to perfectly chewy, golden cookies every time.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, ¾ cup brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes 2–3 minutes with a hand or stand mixer.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in the Oats (and Extras!)

Stir in 3 cups of old-fashioned Quaker oats until evenly distributed. If desired, fold in your extras—like 1 cup of raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts.

Step 6: Scoop and Space

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between cookies to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look just set. For chewier cookies, err on the shorter baking time.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Cookies Every Time

Want to take your oatmeal cookies from good to unforgettable? These pro tips will help you master the texture, flavor, and consistency that make Quaker Oats cookies irresistible:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing and flat cookies. Let your butter and eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before starting to ensure a smooth, well-blended dough.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough
Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy ones.

3. Chill the Dough (Optional, but Recommended)
For thicker, chewier cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the oats absorb moisture and prevents excessive spreading.

4. Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats, Not Instant
Rolled oats give cookies their classic chew and structure. Instant oats can make the dough too mushy and the cookies too soft or cakey.

5. Customize with Care
If you’re adding extras like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts, don’t go overboard—1 to 1½ cups of mix-ins is usually the sweet spot. Too much can overwhelm the dough and affect baking time.

6. Keep an Eye on Bake Time
Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies around the 9-minute mark. For soft and chewy centers, pull them out when they look slightly underdone in the middle—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.

7. Cool on the Tray First
Let your cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them. This helps them set and prevents them from breaking apart.

8. Store for Freshness
Keep cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness. The bread provides moisture, keeping your cookies bakery-fresh for days.

Variations You’ll Love to Try

Oatmeal cookies are wonderfully adaptable, making them the perfect canvas for a variety of delicious twists. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a sweet tooth, add a healthy spin, or try something completely new, these variations will keep your cookie game strong and exciting:

1. Classic Oatmeal Raisin
Sweet, chewy, and nostalgic—just mix in 1 cup of raisins and a touch of cinnamon. For even juicier raisins, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the dough.

2. Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies
A crowd favorite! Swap raisins for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. Add a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a gourmet touch.

3. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Add ½ cup of creamy peanut butter to the dough for rich flavor and extra softness. These are perfect with a few chocolate chunks or crushed peanuts.

4. Coconut & Almond Oatmeal Cookies
Mix in ½ cup of shredded coconut and ½ cup sliced almonds for a tropical, nutty variation. A drizzle of melted white chocolate on top takes them to the next level.

5. Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped apples (peeled) and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. These cookies taste like mini apple crisps—especially when warm!

6. Trail Mix Oatmeal Cookies
Use up your snack stash by tossing in chopped dried fruit, sunflower seeds, mini pretzels, or even M&Ms. Perfect for on-the-go energy bites.

7. Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cookies
Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The texture stays just as chewy and satisfying.

8. Vegan Oatmeal Cookies
Use coconut oil or vegan butter, swap eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.

9. Espresso Dark Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder and mix in dark chocolate chunks for a bold, sophisticated flavor combo perfect with your morning coffee.

10. Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies (Seasonal Favorite!)
In the fall, stir in ½ cup pumpkin purée, reduce the butter slightly, and season with pumpkin pie spice. These are soft, warmly spiced, and totally cozy.

From Chili to Casseroles Top Crock Pot Ground Beef Recipes – labelrecipes.com

Quaker’s Best Oatmeal Cookies Recipe | Quaker Oats