Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe: How to Bake the Classic Favorite

There’s something timeless about the comforting aroma of oatmeal cookies baking in the oven. The Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe is a classic that has stood the test of time — warm, chewy, and bursting with the wholesome flavor of oats. Whether you grew up enjoying these cookies after school or you’re trying them for the first time, this recipe never disappoints.

In this post, you’ll learn exactly how to make the traditional Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe at home — plus expert tips, simple variations, and answers to common questions that will ensure cookie success every time.

⭐ Why This Recipe Is a Classic

The original Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe, also known as the Vanishing Oatmeal Cookies recipe, was first printed on the Quaker Oats container decades ago. It gained popularity for its ease, taste, and texture — chewy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and full of hearty rolled oats.

What makes these cookies special?

• Simplicity: Uses pantry staples.
• Texture: Perfectly chewy and satisfying.
• Flavor: Warm cinnamon and vanilla enhance every bite.
• Versatility: You can customize them with raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts.

🧾 Classic Quaker Oats Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 4 dozen cookies

✨ Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups Quaker® Old Fashioned Oats (or Quick Oats)
• Optional: 1 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugars together until light and creamy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Stir in the oats and any optional add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips.
7. Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto your baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but still soft.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

🔁 Popular Variations

You can easily personalize this recipe with a few simple tweaks:

• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Add 1 cup of raisins.
• Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies: Add 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips.
• Oatmeal Walnut Cookies: Add 3/4 cup chopped walnuts.
• Healthier Twist: Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce and reduce sugar slightly.

❓ FAQ: Your Oatmeal Cookie Questions Answered

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Yes! Both work well, though old-fashioned oats give a heartier texture. Quick oats make a softer cookie.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Roll dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Once frozen, store in a bag. Bake from frozen by adding 1–2 extra minutes.

How do I keep my cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread helps retain moisture.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes — use certified gluten-free oats and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

🍪 Tips for Baking the Perfect Oatmeal Cookie

• Don’t overmix the dough — it can make the cookies tough.
• Use room temperature butter for better creaming.
• Slightly underbake for chewy centers; they’ll firm up as they cool.
• Let the dough chill for 30 minutes if your cookies tend to spread too much.

📸 A Taste of Nostalgia

These cookies are more than just dessert — they’re comfort food. Each bite brings back memories of after-school snacks, cozy kitchens, and shared joy. If you haven’t baked the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe yet, now is the perfect time to start a tradition of your own.

💬 Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer them plain, studded with raisins, or packed with chocolate chips, the Quaker Oats oatmeal cookie recipe is a timeless treasure. It’s simple, reliable, and endlessly adaptable — a perfect starting point for beginner bakers and a favorite for seasoned cookie lovers.

So grab your oats, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the warm, chewy goodness of a true American classic.