Oatmeal Cherry Cookies

Oatmeal Cherry Cookies Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious Snack

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10-12 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Oatmeal Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet and tangy flavor of dried cherries. These cookies are perfect for a snack or dessert, and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

History

The origins of Oatmeal Cherry Cookies are not entirely clear, but oatmeal cookies have been a popular treat in American households for decades. The addition of dried cherries to the classic oatmeal cookie recipe adds a unique twist and a burst of flavor that sets these cookies apart from the rest.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter
1 cup of firmly packed brown sugar
0.5 cup of granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1.5 cup of all-purpose flour
1 tsp of baking powder
0.5 tsp of salt
2 cups of oats
1.5 cups of dried cherries
1 cup of chocolate chips

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, beat margarine, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
Add eggs and vanilla to the mixture, beating well.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the egg mixture.
Stir in oats, cherries, and chocolate chips until well combined.
Using a rounded tablespoon, drop the dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
Place the cookie sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies turn golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool for 1 minute, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Store the cookies in a tightly-covered container.

Variations

Swap out the dried cherries for raisins or cranberries.
Use white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and cozy touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy to ensure a soft and chewy cookie.

- Do not overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added, as this can result in tough cookies.

- For a more intense cherry flavor, soak the dried cherries in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the dough.

- Feel free to add nuts or coconut to the dough for extra texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy Oatmeal Cherry Cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot tea for a comforting treat.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy is key to a soft and chewy cookie.

- Be sure to not overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added to avoid tough cookies.

Ingredient Substitutions

Margarine can be substituted with butter.

- Dried cherries can be swapped out for any other dried fruit of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Oatmeal Cherry Cookies on a decorative platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Oatmeal Cherry Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Oatmeal Cherry Cookies in a tightly-covered container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Oatmeal Cherry Cookies contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Oatmeal Cherry Cookies contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Oatmeal Cherry Cookies contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Oatmeal Cherry Cookies contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Oatmeal Cherry Cookies are a good source of iron and fiber.

Alergens

Oatmeal Cherry Cookies contain wheat, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

Oatmeal Cherry Cookies are a delicious treat that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are a great source of iron and fiber, making them a wholesome snack option.

Summary

Oatmeal Cherry Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet and tangy flavor of dried cherries. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a comforting snack that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Oatmeal Cherry Cookies. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town. My love for baking had already begun to blossom, and I was always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try.

One day, I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was known throughout the town for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I walked through her door, I was greeted by the warm and comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies. Martha had just taken a batch of Oatmeal Cherry Cookies out of the oven, and they looked absolutely divine.

I couldn't resist asking Martha for the recipe, and she was more than happy to share it with me. She told me that she had learned how to make these cookies from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through the generations.

As Martha read off the ingredients and instructions, I could hardly contain my excitement. The combination of chewy oatmeal, sweet cherries, and a hint of cinnamon sounded absolutely perfect. I knew right then and there that I had to try making these cookies for myself.

That very weekend, I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. As I mixed the dough and watched the cherries swirl into the oatmeal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. Baking had always been a way for me to express my creativity and share my love with others, and these cookies were no exception.

When the cookies finally emerged from the oven, golden brown and fragrant, I knew I had created something truly special. The first bite was pure bliss - the chewy texture of the oatmeal, the burst of sweet cherry flavor, and the subtle warmth of cinnamon all combined to create a taste sensation like no other.

From that moment on, Oatmeal Cherry Cookies became a staple in my baking repertoire. I would make them for family gatherings, bake sales, and just for myself when I needed a little pick-me-up. Each batch was a labor of love, and I took great pride in sharing them with others.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect the recipe, making small tweaks here and there to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have also passed it on to my own children and grandchildren, who now bake these cookies in their own kitchens with the same love and care that I do.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the familiar scents and sounds of my kitchen, I can't help but reflect on the journey that brought me to this moment. From that fateful day at Martha's house to the countless batches of cookies I have baked since, the recipe for Oatmeal Cherry Cookies has brought me so much joy and fulfillment.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share this recipe with others, and I hope that it brings as much happiness to them as it has to me. Baking has always been my passion, my way of connecting with others and spreading joy in the world. And these cookies, with their perfect balance of flavors and textures, will always hold a special place in my heart.