Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies
There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, and these Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies are no exception! With their delightful chewiness, wholesome oats, and a hint of sweetness, they’re perfect for any occasion. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, and you can whip them up with just a handful of ingredients. So, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your cookie repertoire.
Reasons to Love Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies
There are so many reasons to adore these cookies! First and foremost, they’re made with wholesome ingredients that deliver both flavor and texture. The combination of old-fashioned oats and brown sugar creates a cookie that is chewy on the inside and slightly crispy on the edges. Additionally, they are versatile and can easily be customized to suit your taste.
Another reason to love these cookies is their simplicity. The process of making Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies doesn’t require any fancy tools or techniques. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! Plus, they make for a fantastic treat to share with friends, family, or coworkers.
What’s in the Bowl
Let’s gather our ingredients for these delicious Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies:
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted (allow to cool slightly before adding)
- 1/4 cup water
These ingredients come together to create a cookie that’s not only delicious but also hearty and satisfying.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before we dive into the baking, let’s gather the essential tools you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl to mix your ingredients together.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurement of each ingredient.
- Baking sheet: A flat surface for baking your cookies.
- Parchment paper: Optional, but it helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Spatula: For mixing and transferring the cookie dough.
With your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started on these scrumptious Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies!
Directions: Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In your mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir them together until well mixed, ensuring there are no clumps of brown sugar.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in the melted butter and water into the dry mixture. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky, which is exactly what we want for a chewy cookie!
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out portions of the dough and form them into balls. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving a little space in between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely (if you can resist the temptation) before digging in!
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, here are some easy swaps you can make:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like maple syrup (adjust the water accordingly).
- Egg-Free: While this recipe doesn’t call for eggs, if you want to enhance the binding, consider adding a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
Steer Clear of These
When making Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Avoid using quick oats as they will yield a different texture.
- Don’t skip the salt, as it enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Be cautious not to overmix the dough; a gentle stir is all you need.
- Keep an eye on the baking time to prevent over-baking, which can lead to dry cookies.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To keep your Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies fresh, consider these storage tips:
- Store: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months.
- Reheat: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Ask & Learn
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, walnuts, or even dried fruit like cranberries make fantastic additions to the cookie dough. Just fold them in after mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
What do I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough appears too dry, you can add a tablespoon of water or melted butter at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. The dough should be thick but not crumbly.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges turn golden brown, and the centers are set but still soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! You can make these cookies vegan by using a plant-based butter substitute and omitting any eggs. The recipe is already egg-free, but you can also use flaxseed meal as a binder if desired.
That’s a Wrap
There you have it! These Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies are not just a delicious treat; they are also easy to make and customizable to fit your dietary needs. With their wholesome ingredients and delightful chewiness, they will surely become a favorite in your home. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or just as a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best homemade cookies around. You won’t regret it! Happy baking!
Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl and stir until well mixed.
- Pour the melted butter and water into the dry mixture and stir until thoroughly combined.
- Scoop out portions of the dough and form them into balls, placing them on the baking sheet with space in between.
- Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For gluten-free cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture!
