Oatmeal Cherry Cookies
Oatmeal Cherry Cookies blend wholesome oats with sweet, tart cherries for a chewy, flavorful treat. The soft texture, combined with warm spices and a hint of nuttiness, makes these cookies irresistible.
Ingredients
For Classic Oatmeal Cherry Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup chopped fresh or dried cherries
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips for chocolate cherry cookies
- ½ tsp cinnamon for added warmth
For Gluten-Free Variation
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats
- 1 tbsp dairy-free milk optional, for extra moisture
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
- Fold in the oats and cherries (and dark chocolate chips, if using) until evenly distributed.
Form and Bake the Cookies
- Scoop the dough into 1½-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Gluten-Free Tips
- Use a mix of gluten-free flours for better texture.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies keep their shape.
Storage
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.