Classic Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients

• Butter (1 cup, softened)
• Brown sugar (1 cup)
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
• Egg (2)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups)
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon)
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Old-fashioned oats (3 cups)
• Raisins (1 cup)
• Chopped nuts (optional) (1 cup)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the oats, followed by the raisins and chopped nuts if using. The dough should be thick and hearty.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread as they bake.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look a little undercooked, but they will firm up as they cool.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy these classic chewy oatmeal cookies as is, or feel free to customize them with chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a modern twist!