Oatmeal Cherry Cookies

There’s something undeniably comforting about cookies, especially when they come packed with the wholesome goodness of oats and the tart sweetness of cherries. These Oatmeal Cherry Cookies are not just your average treat; they are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). The chewy oats, vibrant dried cherries, and creamy hints of white chocolate create a symphony of taste that is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive holiday parties.

The beauty of these cookies lies in their versatility. They can be enjoyed warm from the oven or stored for later, making them a fantastic make-ahead option. Plus, they are a great way to sneak in some nutritious ingredients without sacrificing flavor. So, let’s dive into the reasons you’ll fall in love with these Oatmeal Cherry Cookies and how to make them at home.

Reasons to Love Oatmeal Cherry Cookies

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tart cherries and sweet white chocolate is simply irresistible.
• Chewy Goodness: The old-fashioned rolled oats bring a wonderful chewiness that enhances the cookie experience.
• Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or swap cherries for other dried fruits to make these cookies your own.
• Make Ahead: These cookies store well, making them perfect for meal prep or batch baking.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a special dessert, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredient Rundown

Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to whip up these delightful Oatmeal Cherry Cookies:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cookies, giving them structure and a delightful texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: It works alongside the baking soda for extra leavening.
• ½ cup butter, room temperature: Butter adds richness and flavor to the cookies.
• ½ cup shortening: Shortening helps keep the cookies tender and chewy.
• 1 cup dark-brown sugar: This adds a deep, molasses-like flavor that complements the cherries.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: For a touch of sweetness and to help with the cookie’s texture.
• 2 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla: A classic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract: This adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The star ingredient, providing heartiness and chewiness.
• 2 cups dried tart cherries: These give the cookies a burst of flavor and a chewy texture.
• 4 ounces white chocolate (chopped) or white chocolate chips: Creamy white chocolate adds sweetness and richness.

Prep & Cook Tools

Make sure you have the following tools ready to create your Oatmeal Cherry Cookies:

• Mixing bowls: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: To ensure even mixing of the dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer: This will help cream the butter and sugars together efficiently.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking.
• Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Cookie scoop: For uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
• Cooling rack: To allow the cookies to cool properly after baking.

Method: Oatmeal Cherry Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and shortening together using an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the dark-brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the large eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Oats, Cherries, and White Chocolate

Gently fold in the rolled oats, dried tart cherries, and chopped white chocolate. This step adds texture and flavor to each cookie.

Step 8: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool.

Step 10: Cool

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

These Oatmeal Cherry Cookies can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas to switch it up for different seasons:

• Spring: Add lemon zest and a sprinkle of poppy seeds for a refreshing twist.
• Summer: Incorporate dried apricots or peaches for a fruity flavor.
• Fall: Mix in pumpkin spice and chopped pecans for a seasonal touch.
• Winter: Use dried cranberries and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy feel.

Learn from These Mistakes

When making your Oatmeal Cherry Cookies, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients, as this can result in tough cookies.
• Not Measuring Properly: Accurate measurements are key for the perfect cookie texture. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
• Skipping Cooling Time: Allowing cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet helps them set and prevents breakage.
• Using Quick Oats: Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats will alter the cookie’s chewiness.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Oatmeal Cherry Cookies fresh, follow these storage tips:

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will stay good for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warm.

Reader Q&A

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?

While fresh cherries can be used, they contain more moisture and can alter the texture of the cookies. If you decide to use fresh cherries, be sure to chop them finely and reduce the amount of other wet ingredients slightly.

What can I substitute for shortening?

If you prefer not to use shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of butter. This will make the cookies richer but may slightly alter their texture.

Can I use quick oats for this recipe?

For the best results, it’s recommended to use old-fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats can lead to a different texture, affecting the chewiness of the cookies.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Oatmeal Cherry Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free as well.

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See You at the Table

There you have it—your guide to making scrumptious Oatmeal Cherry Cookies! Whether for sharing or savoring by yourself, these cookies are sure to be a favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of baking these delightful treats. Happy baking, and see you at the table!