Iced oatmeal cookies combine the comforting chewiness of oats with a delightful sweet glaze, making them a favorite treat for cookie lovers of all ages. The subtle flavors and satisfying texture bring warmth to a cookie that is both nostalgic and refreshing. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon snack or a dessert after dinner, these cookies offer a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and indulgent icing.
Why We Love This Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Iced oatmeal cookies stand out for several reasons. First, the hearty oats give these cookies a distinctive texture that sets them apart from traditional cookies. You can chew into each bite, savoring the rich, satisfying flavors. The addition of a silky icing elevates these treats, providing a sweet finish while balancing the hearty richness of oats.
Another reason is their versatility. You can enjoy these cookies plain or with a variety of mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. This customization makes them perfect for any occasion, whether you are hosting a gathering or simply looking for a satisfying snack at home. Furthermore, iced oatmeal cookies are simple to make, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, they are bound to please.
Ingredients for Iced Oatmeal Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 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 rolled oats
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for icing
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle-able.
- Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the icing over the top of each cookie using a fork or a piping bag for a neater finish. Allow the icing to set before serving.
How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Iced oatmeal cookies shine when you present them in creative ways. To start, serve them on a beautiful platter alongside a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. If you’re hosting a gathering, arrange them on a dessert table for guests to sample. You can also stack them high with a ribbon around them to make an inviting gift for friends or family.
For a playful twist, serve your iced oatmeal cookies alongside a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This combination adds a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. You might also pair them with seasonal fruit, such as fresh berries or sliced apples, which adds a refreshing and tart touch that complements the sweetness of the cookie. Consider integrating iced oatmeal cookies into festive occasions by incorporating them into dessert buffets or baking them with festive sprinkles on top of the icing, enhancing both their visual appeal and taste.
Expert Tips for Iced Oatmeal Cookies
To ensure your iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly, keep a few expert tips in mind. First, measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, particularly for the flour and oats. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them spread too much during baking.
Second, don’t overmix your dough after adding the dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined to maintain the cookies’ tenderness. Letting the dough rest for 10-15 minutes before baking can also enhance the cookie’s texture by allowing the oats to absorb some moisture, making them chewier.
Furthermore, be mindful of your oven’s temperature, as oven performance can vary. An oven thermometer can help you maintain the correct temperature. Bake until the edges are golden, and the centers still appear soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool. Lastly, for an extra touch, experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or allspice to the cookie dough for deeper flavor profiles.
How to Store Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Storing your iced oatmeal cookies properly will help maintain their freshness and flavor. Once the icing has set, you can store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’d like them to stay fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them. In cool, dry conditions, they can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
If you want to extend their shelf life even further, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, iced oatmeal cookies can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their soft, chewy texture.
Variations of Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Get creative with your iced oatmeal cookies by trying various variations to suit your taste or occasion. One simple modification is to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts, giving them added texture and flavor. For a more festive touch, you might consider incorporating holiday-themed spices, such as ginger or pumpkin spice, into the dough.
You can also change the icing flavors to suit your preference. Instead of traditional vanilla, try adding cinnamon, almond extract, or a touch of cocoa powder to the icing for an intriguing twist. Topping the icing with toasted coconut or crushed nuts can add visual appeal and additional texture.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour or use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. For those who enjoy a little crunch, consider using steel-cut oats in place of rolled oats; just be aware that they may alter the cookie’s texture slightly. Each of these variations provides an opportunity to make your iced oatmeal cookies uniquely yours.
FAQ about Iced Oatmeal Cookies
If you’re new to making iced oatmeal cookies, you probably have some questions. One common question is whether you can make the cookies without icing. Absolutely! The cookies are delicious on their own, and you can skip the icing for a more traditional treat. Some also wonder if these cookies can be made vegan. With the right egg substitute and dairy-free butter or oil, you can create a vegan version that still tastes great.
Another frequently asked question is, "Can I make the dough ahead of time?" Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for another time. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before dropping spoonfuls onto your baking sheet.
You may also ask if these cookies are suitable for special diets. By making some ingredient adjustments, such as using gluten-free flour and oats, you can make them suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals. Lastly, remember that storing iced oatmeal cookies properly is crucial for freshness, so keep them in an airtight container to enjoy them at their best!
Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure the butter is at room temperature.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed Use dark brown sugar for richer flavor.
- 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 rolled oats Use old-fashioned oats for best results.
Icing
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for icing
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Baking
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Icing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle the icing over the top of each cookie using a fork or piping bag.
- Allow the icing to set before serving.
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