Name: Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Ground Flax Seed; 2 1/2 tablespoons Water; 3/4 cup Salted Butter (I used vegan butter.); 1 1/2 cups Rolled Oats; 3/4 cup All Purpose Flour; 3/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; Pinch Salt (Optional, only if you like salty desserts.); 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar; 1/2 tablespoon Vanilla Extract; 1/2 tablespoon Molasses (Optional, but recommended.); 3/4 cup Raisins

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There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, and when it comes to Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, it’s an experience that warms the heart. I still remember the first time I made these gems. It was a rainy afternoon, and the mood called for something cozy and comforting. I rummaged through my pantry and found all the essentials to create these delightful cookies. The combination of chewy oats and sweet raisins, paired with the rich flavor of browned butter, creates an unbeatable treat that anyone can enjoy, even if you’re not vegan!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
25 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

Why Try This Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Why They’re So Special

Let me tell you why I absolutely adore these Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. First and foremost, they’re incredibly easy to make. Sometimes when the cravings hit, you just want to whip up something that can be ready in a jiffy, and these cookies fit the bill perfectly!

Perfectly Chewy Texture

The texture is another reason I’m hooked. They strike a perfect balance between chewy and slightly crisp on the edges. This delightful combination comes from the rolled oats and the way we prepare the butter. Trust me; you’ll enjoy every bite!

Wholesome Ingredients

Using wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and dark brown sugar makes these cookies not just delicious but also a bit more nutritious. They’re a sweet treat you can feel good about sharing with family and friends.

Customizable Fun

What I love most about these cookies is how easily they can be customized. You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit to the mix. The basic recipe is a great canvas for your creativity, making each batch unique!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Lastly, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a quiet night in or a festive gathering, they always impress. Plus, they’re vegan, meaning everyone can indulge without worry!

Ingredients to Make Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

For these Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect treat. The main players are rolled oats, which provide a hearty texture, and dark brown sugar, which adds depth and sweetness. Together, they create a delicious base, while additional ingredients like flaxseed serve as a binding agent, ensuring these cookies hold together beautifully.

1 tablespoon ground flax seed – This acts as a binder and gives a great texture to our cookies.
2 1/2 tablespoons water – Used to activate the flaxseed, creating a vegan-friendly egg substitute.
3/4 cup salted butter (or vegan butter) – Adds richness and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cookies.
1 1/2 cups rolled oats – Provides a hearty texture and chewiness that makes these cookies special.
3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Gives structure to the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape.
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and a comforting spice that complements the raisins.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise, giving them a light and airy texture.
Pinch of salt – Enhances the flavors, making the cookies even more delicious.
1/2 packed cup plus 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar – Adds sweetness, moisture, and a rich flavor.
1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla elevates the flavor profile of the cookies.
1/2 tablespoon molasses (optional) – Deepens the flavor and adds a hint of caramel notes.
3/4 cup raisins – The star ingredient, contributing sweetness and a delightful chew.

Preparation Steps for Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Making these Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies is a fun process that allows you to engage your senses. From the rich aroma of browned butter to the delightful texture of the cookie dough, you’ll love every step. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Prep: Start by spraying or lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. While you prepare the cookie dough, it’s best to have your baking sheet ready to go.
Prepare the Flax Egg: In a small bowl, mix the ground flax seed with the water. Stir well and let it sit for about five minutes until it thickens. This will act as your binding agent in place of eggs.
Brown the Butter: In a small pan or pot, add the butter and warm it over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it fully melts. As it melts, you’ll notice bubbles forming a white foam on top. Keep stirring until the foam darkens and the protein solids settle at the bottom of the pan, turning golden. This should take about eight to ten minutes. It’s a beautiful process that brings out the best in the butter!
Combine Wet Ingredients: Once the butter is browned, remove it from heat and transfer it to a medium bowl. Place this bowl in the fridge for about ten minutes to cool down. In the meantime, gather your dry ingredients.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Create a well in the center and set this bowl aside while waiting for the butter.
Combine All Ingredients: Once the butter has cooled slightly, take it out of the fridge. Add the brown sugar, prepared flax egg, vanilla extract, and molasses (if using). Mix until well combined.
Form the Dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then gently fold in the raisins. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least one hour, or up to one day. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and helps the cookies maintain their shape when baked.
Preheat the Oven: Once you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cookies start baking at the right temperature for optimal texture.
Scoop and Shape: Scoop out about two tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball with your hands. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Gently press down on each cookie ball to flatten them slightly. They won’t spread much during baking.
Bake the Cookies: Bake in the middle rack of the oven for eight to ten minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges turn golden brown. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for another ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve & Store: Enjoy these cookies warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. You can also freeze them for up to one month and reheat as needed.

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the Dough: It’s important to chill the cookie dough to prevent spreading. This helps maintain the chewy texture.
Brown Butter Benefits: Browning the butter enhances the flavor, creating a nutty taste that elevates your cookies.
Texture Checks: Look for a slightly crisp edge and a soft center. This means your cookies are perfectly baked.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, but be mindful of the balance in texture.

Customization Ideas

There are so many ways to make these Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies your own! Whether you want to switch up the flavors or try exciting variations, the possibilities are endless.

Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days to keep them fresh.
Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to one month. Just scoop and freeze the dough balls, then bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Swap out some raisins for chocolate chips for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.
Nuts for Crunch: Add in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and flavor enhancement.
Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or ginger, to give your cookies a unique flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend and gluten-free oats for a perfect gluten-free treat.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle some melted vegan chocolate over the cooled cookies for an indulgent touch.

What to Serve With Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

These Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are versatile and can be paired with a variety of delicious accompaniments. Here’s a list of ideas to enhance your cookie experience:

With Coffee: Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
On a Dessert Table: These cookies are a fantastic addition to any dessert spread, perfect for events like birthdays or potlucks.
As a Lunchbox Treat: Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Seasonal Pairings: For fall, consider pairing with chai tea; during summer, enjoy with a glass of almond milk.
With Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert!
Great for Sharing: These cookies make wonderful gifts when packaged in a decorative box or bag for friends and family.

FAQ

Yes! The Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are made without any animal products. Instead of eggs, we use a flaxseed mixture to bind the ingredients together, making them completely plant-based. This means everyone can enjoy them, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that different flours may affect the texture slightly, so you might need to adjust the liquid content to achieve your desired consistency.

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to one month. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit in addition to the raisins. You can also experiment with different spices to make these cookies uniquely yours. Just remember that adding more ingredients may require slight adjustments in the flour or liquid amounts.

Conclusion

These Chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Their chewy texture and rich flavor will keep you reaching for just one more! I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it. Whether you’re sharing with family, friends, or keeping them all to yourself, they’re sure to be a hit!