Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks/226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups (192g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups (240g) rolled oats (old-fashioned oats, not instant)
  • 1 cup raisins, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Stir in the rolled oats and your choice of mix-ins (raisins, chocolate chips, etc.).
  6. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This helps to prevent spreading and enhances the flavor.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  8. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
  9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.