Magnolia Bakery’s oatmeal raisin cookies have earned a special place in the hearts of cookie lovers everywhere. Known for their perfect balance of chewy oats and plump raisins these cookies offer a comforting classic flavor that never goes out of style.
We’re excited to share a recipe that captures the bakery’s signature taste and texture so you can enjoy these delicious treats right at home. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert these cookies deliver warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps this recipe lets us recreate Magnolia Bakery’s iconic oatmeal raisin cookies with ease. Let’s dive into making these timeless favorites that bring a little sweetness to any day.
Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
To recreate the Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies at home with a perfect balance of chewy oats and plump raisins, we follow these precise steps. Each instruction is designed to ensure consistency and bring out the classic flavor these cookies are famous for.
Ingredients Overview
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | softened |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup | packed |
| Large eggs | 2 | |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | sifted |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | |
| Rolled oats | 3 cups | |
| Raisins | 1 cup | preferably plump |
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial to create the cookie’s tender crumb.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for that signature Magnolia Bakery aroma.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the rolled oats and raisins carefully to evenly distribute without overmixing.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour. This resting period helps the oats absorb moisture, resulting in a chewier texture.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. Remember, cookies continue to bake slightly after removing from the oven.
Step 5: Cooling
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step ensures they set properly without breaking.
Ingredients
To achieve the perfect Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies flavor and texture, we start by carefully selecting and measuring each ingredient. Below you’ll find a breakdown of the essential components for these classic cookies, divided into dry, wet, and optional add-ins to customize your batch.
Dry Ingredients
Our dry ingredients provide structure, flavor, and that signature chewiness:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted to ensure a light dough
- 1 teaspoon baking soda, for lift and softness
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, adding warm spice
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt, to balance sweetness
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, the star of the cookie
- 1 1/2 cups plump raisins, for that classic chew and sweetness
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Structure and bulk |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | Leavening |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Warm spice flavor |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Flavor balance |
| Rolled oats | 3 cups | Texture and chewiness |
| Raisins | 1 1/2 cups | Natural sweetness and chew |
Wet Ingredients
These ingredients bind the dough and create our cookies’ rich, chewy mouthfeel:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened for easy creaming
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar, for moisture and depth
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for crispness and sweetness
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature, to bind ingredients
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, unlocking deep flavor notes
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Softened for creaming |
| Light brown sugar | 1 cup | Adds moisture and caramel notes |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup | Adds crispness and sweetness |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Pure for best flavor |
Optional Add-Ins
To personalize your Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, consider these enhancements:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, for crunch and nutty richness
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut, for tropical sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, to complement the cinnamon flavor
Adding these will elevate your cookies while preserving their iconic taste and cheer.
By assembling ingredients this way and adhering to accurate measurements, we ensure our Magnolia Bakery oatmeal raisin cookies bake perfectly chewy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible every time.
Equipment Needed
To bake the Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies perfectly, having the right equipment ensures consistency and ease throughout the process. Here’s what we recommend:
- Mixing Bowls
Use at least two: one for wet ingredients and one for dry ingredients. Choose medium to large glass or stainless steel bowls for easy mixing and cleanup.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
For creaming unsalted butter, sugars, and eggs smoothly, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer is essential. This helps achieve the perfect creamy texture for the dough.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement is key. Use a full set of both dry and liquid measuring tools to ensure precise ingredient quantities.
- Spatula and Wooden Spoon
A flexible spatula is perfect for scraping the bowl edges, while a wooden spoon helps incorporate the dry ingredients without overmixing.
- Baking Sheets
Choose rimmed, heavy-duty baking sheets to hold shape and prevent warping during baking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats
Line your baking sheets to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Cooling Rack
A wire cooling rack allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess underneath.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon
For uniform cookie sizes, a cookie scoop or a level tablespoon helps portion the dough consistently.
| Equipment Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate wet and dry ingredients mixing |
| Electric Mixer | Cream butter sugars eggs for perfect texture |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Ensure ingredient accuracy |
| Spatula & Wooden Spoon | Mixing and scraping batter |
| Baking Sheets | Provide stable baking surface |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Avoids sticking and promotes even baking |
| Cooling Rack | Cools cookies evenly |
| Cookie Scoop/Tablespoon | Uniform cookie size and shape |
Preparation
To ensure Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies turn out perfectly every time, precise preparation is essential. Let’s break down the crucial steps before mixing and baking.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurements are the foundation of our oatmeal raisin cookie recipe. Use proper measuring tools to balance the dry, wet, and optional add-ins precisely. Below is the recommended measurement guide for the key ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | Softened to room temp |
| Light brown sugar | 1 cup | Packed |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | |
| Eggs | 2 large | At room temp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla preferred |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | Spoon in and level off |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Freshly ground if possible |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Kosher or sea salt |
| Rolled oats | 3 cups | Old-fashioned oats |
| Raisins | 1 ½ cups | Plump and soft |
We recommend sifting the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt together to avoid clumps and ensure even distribution in the dough. For wet ingredients, cream butter and sugars thoroughly before adding eggs and vanilla to create the ideal base for chewy cookies.
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C). This temperature strikes the perfect balance for these oatmeal raisin cookies — baking them gently enough to remain chewy inside while achieving a slight golden crisp around edges.
Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer for accuracy, since inconsistent heat can affect cookie texture and rise.
Preparing the Baking Sheets
We want flawless baking conditions to replicate Magnolia Bakery’s iconic texture. Here’s how to prepare the baking sheets:
- Line heavy-duty baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Avoid greasing the sheets directly; this can cause spreading and uneven browning.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion dough evenly, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart for adequate rising room.
By following these preparation essentials, we lay the groundwork for cookies that boast the perfect chew, flavor, and appearance synonymous with Magnolia Bakery’s famous oatmeal raisin treats.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create our Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies with perfect texture and classic flavor.
Mixing the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), ½ cup light brown sugar, and ⅓ cup granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 1 large egg and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup (sifted) |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
Slowly add the dry mix to the wet ingredients in batches. Stir carefully with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
Incorporating Raisins and Oats
- Fold in 1 ½ cups rolled oats gently to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
- Add 1 cup plump raisins ensuring the fruit is spread uniformly. This step creates the chewy texture and bursts of sweetness characteristic of Magnolia Bakery’s signature oatmeal raisin cookies.
- Optional: For added crunch and depth, fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans or ¼ tsp ground nutmeg to enhance aroma.
Shaping the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two heavy-duty baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion dough into even balls—each about 1 ½ inches in diameter.
- Place dough balls on the prepared sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow spreading.
- Lightly press each ball to flatten slightly for even baking and the perfect chewy texture.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges turn golden but the centers remain soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Transfer cookies to a cooling rack and let cool completely to develop their rich flavor and chewy consistency.
By following these precise baking instructions, we ensure each batch of Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies comes out irresistibly soft, chewy, and full of classic flavor.
Baking Directions
Mastering the art of baking Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies requires precise attention to oven settings, timing, and cooling techniques. Below we break down the essential steps to ensure our cookies achieve that signature chewy texture and classic flavor.
Oven Temperature and Timing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), the optimal temperature that allows the cookies to bake evenly while developing a golden exterior without drying out the centers.
Place cookie dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on parchment-lined or silicone mat–lined baking sheets. Bake each batch for 10-12 minutes until the edges are a light golden brown and the centers appear just set but still soft.
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Cookie Size | Dough Spacing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 10-12 minutes | 1 1/2-inch balls | 2 inches apart |
We recommend rotating the baking sheets halfway through baking for even heat exposure.
Checking for Doneness
To check if our Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are perfectly baked, look for these key signs:
- Edges: Light golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
- Centers: Soft, slightly underbaked but stable. They will firm up as they cool.
- Bottom: Lightly browned but not burnt.
Avoid overbaking since the cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet. Our goal is a soft chewy texture with caramelized edges that embody the signature bite of Magnolia Bakery.
Cooling the Cookies
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set their shape and finish baking gently. Then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
This cooling process is crucial—it lets the moisture redistribute, resulting in the perfect chewy consistency that melts in your mouth with every bite.
“Cooling on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around each cookie.”
Following these baking directions guarantees our Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies come out irresistibly moist, soft, and full of that classic nostalgic flavor we love.
Storage Tips
To keep our Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies fresh and chewy, proper storage is essential. Follow these precise steps to preserve flavor, texture, and moisture.
- Cool Completely Before Storing
Allow cookies to cool fully on a wire rack. Storing warm cookies traps steam, leading to soggy texture.
- Use an Airtight Container
Place cookies in a tightly sealed container to maintain softness and prevent drying out. Avoid loosely covered containers or plastic bags without seals.
- Separate Layers With Parchment Paper
If stacking cookies, layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking and preserve individual cookie shape.
Room Temperature Storage
For short-term freshness keep cookies at room temperature for up to 4 days.
| Condition | Duration | Storage Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 4 days | Airtight container at cool dry place |
Refrigeration Storage
For extended storage up to 2 weeks, refrigerate cookies:
- Use an airtight container.
- Remove cookies from fridge 10 minutes before serving to soften.
| Condition | Duration | Storage Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 2 weeks | Airtight container in fridge, bring to room temp before serving |
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
To enjoy cookies beyond two weeks, freeze them using these steps:
- Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving for best texture.
| Condition | Duration | Storage Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Individually wrapped, sealed in freezer-safe container |
“Proper storage ensures our oatmeal raisin cookies retain that signature chewy texture and rich flavor long after baking.”
By following these storage tips, we preserve the magic of Magnolia Bakery’s classic oatmeal raisin cookies for any craving or occasion.
Variations and Substitutions
When baking our Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, we can easily customize them by exploring various variations and substitutions to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences without losing the signature chewy texture and luscious taste.
Fruit Variations
We can replace or combine the classic raisins with other dried fruits for a different twist:
- Dried cranberries: Add a tart, sweet contrast
- Chopped dates: Provide extra chewiness and caramel notes
- Golden raisins: Offer a lighter, sweeter flavor
These alternatives maintain the moist texture while enhancing the flavor profile.
Nutty Enhancements
For added crunch and richness, we can include nuts such as:
- Chopped walnuts (up to ½ cup): Classic pairing enhancing the earthy oatmeal flavor
- Pecans: Add buttery notes
- Slivered almonds: Provide a mild, delicate crunch
Adding nuts boosts texture complexity but keep the quantity moderate to avoid overwhelming the cookies.
Spice Substitutions
To create a more aromatic or warm flavor, we can tweak the spices:
| Spice Option | Suggested Amount | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ground nutmeg | ¼ teaspoon | Adds warm, nutty undertones |
| Ground ginger | ½ teaspoon | Brings slight spiciness and zest |
| Pumpkin pie spice | ½ teaspoon | Offers cozy fall-inspired warmth |
Adjust spice amounts cautiously to keep harmony with cinnamon’s distinctive flavor.
Sweetener Alternatives
We can tailor sweetness or caloric content by substituting sugars:
- Use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar for a lower glycemic index and subtle caramel flavor.
- Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar for a hint of maple sweetness.
- For a natural sweetener option, swap sugars for honey or pure maple syrup (reduce wet ingredients slightly to adjust dough consistency).
Flour & Oat Options
For different textures or dietary preferences:
| Ingredient | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Whole wheat flour | Adds nuttiness and fiber, slightly denser texture; use 1:1 ratio |
| Rolled oats | Quick oats | Cookies will be less chewy, more tender |
| Gluten-free oat flour + GF flour blend | Suitable for gluten intolerance, maintain chewiness |
Keep in mind the dough consistency may require slight adjustments when altering these core ingredients.
Egg & Butter Substitutions
To accommodate vegan or allergy needs:
- Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg, set 5 minutes)
- Substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil (same quantity)
These swaps preserve binding and moisture but may slightly influence flavor and texture.
By experimenting with these Variations and Substitutions, we can craft our own personalized version of the iconic Magnolia Bakery Oatmeal Raisin Cookies while maintaining their cherished chewy, flavorful profile.
Conclusion
Baking Magnolia Bakery’s oatmeal raisin cookies at home is a rewarding way to bring a classic treat right to our kitchen. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can capture that perfect chewy texture and nostalgic flavor every time. Whether we stick to the original recipe or explore variations, these cookies never fail to impress.
By following the steps carefully and paying attention to storage tips, we ensure our cookies stay fresh and delicious for days. It’s a simple pleasure that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Let’s keep baking and savoring these timeless delights together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Magnolia Bakery’s oatmeal raisin cookies special?
Magnolia Bakery’s oatmeal raisin cookies are known for their chewy oats, plump raisins, and perfect balance of spices. Their classic texture and nostalgic flavor come from carefully measured ingredients and precise baking techniques.
Can I make Magnolia Bakery’s oatmeal raisin cookies at home?
Yes! The recipe is simple and uses common ingredients to help you recreate the bakery’s signature chewy and flavorful cookies right in your own kitchen.
What ingredients are needed for these cookies?
The key ingredients include unsalted butter, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, rolled oats, and raisins. Optional add-ins like nuts and coconut are also suggested.
What baking equipment do I need?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula, wooden spoon, heavy-duty baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, a cooling rack, and a cookie scoop or tablespoon for uniform sizes.
How should I prepare the dough for the best results?
Cream the softened butter and sugars until light and fluffy, mix in eggs and vanilla, then combine with sifted dry ingredients. Stir in oats and raisins before chilling the dough to develop the signature chewy texture.
What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Bake until edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft for perfect chewiness.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for light golden brown edges and soft centers. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for even cooling.
How should I store oatmeal raisin cookies to keep them fresh?
Cool completely before storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate up to 2 weeks or freeze up to 3 months with parchment paper between cookies.
Can the recipe be modified for dietary preferences?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients like dried cranberries for raisins, nuts for added crunch, or use gluten-free flour. Vegan options include plant-based butter and egg replacements.
Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling helps the dough firm up, which improves texture and prevents spreading during baking. It enhances the cookies’ chewiness and flavor development.