Okay, friends, let’s talk cookies. Not just any cookies, but these Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies. I know, the name is a mouthful, but trust me, so is the flavor! They’re like the cozy sweater of the cookie world – warm, comforting, and just perfect for a chilly evening. If you’re a fan of classic oatmeal raisin cookies, prepare to have your world rocked. These are similar, but with a festive twist of tart cranberries and crunchy pecans that make them absolutely irresistible. They’re the perfect mix of chewy, nutty, and sweet with a hint of tang that keeps you coming back for more. I honestly can’t keep a batch of these around for more than a couple of days – they just disappear!
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What is Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies?
Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are your favorite oatmeal cookie leveled up. What is your favorite oatmeal cookie recipe? We start with rolled oats, which gives them that wonderful chewy texture and nutty flavor. What is the magic of dried cranberries? toasted pecans for a satisfying crunch and warm, buttery taste. What is a symphony of flavors and textures that dance on your taste buds? I’ve always loved oatmeal cookies, and this version just takes it to a whole new level. Is this recipe simple enough for a weeknight bake?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to eat Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies?flavorIs it out of this world? What is the best combination of cranberry, oatmeal, and pecans? Is it sweet, but not too sweet? Then there’s the second elementsimplicityWhat makes this recipe so easy to make? I’ve made it with kids helping and it’s always a fun, relatively mess-free activity. Plus, the ingredients are pretty good.cost-efficient. You probably already have most of them in your pantry! Oatmeal is a staple, cranberries are easy to find (especially around the holidays), and pecans, nuts, and nutmeg. While sometimes a bit pricier, add such an amazing touch.versatilityWhat are the best cookies to serve on their own? Is it good to serve coffee over vanilla ice cream? What I love about these cookies is how comforting they are. They remind me of cozy evenings by the fireplace, sharing stories with family and friends. Is it like a warm hug in cookie form? What are some good Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan cookies with a twist? Is it definitely for you? I promise you won’t regret trying them!
How do I make Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies?
Quick Overview
Making these Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies is a breeze! Basically, you’ll mix your dry ingredients, then your wet ingredients, combine them, and fold in the cranberries and pecans. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and bake until golden brown. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s very forgiving. Don’t worry too much about being precise – it’s all about having fun and enjoying the process. The result is a batch of warm, chewy, and utterly delicious cookies that everyone will love. And the best part? The aroma that fills your kitchen while they’re baking is simply divine!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s *really* soft for easy creaming. I sometimes leave it out overnight if I remember!
* ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
* ¾ cup packed light Brown Sugar: For that chewy texture and caramel flavor.
* 2 large eggs: Use room temperature eggs for better emulsification.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract is always best. I splurge on a good quality one – it makes a difference.
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: You can substitute with gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed.
* 1 teaspoon baking soda: For leavening and a slightly tangy flavor.
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and coziness.
* ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the other flavors.
* 3 cups rolled oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats, not instant. I love the texture they provide.
For the Filling:
* 1 cup dried cranberries: I prefer the sweetened dried cranberries, but you can use unsweetened if you prefer a tarter cookie.
* 1 cup chopped pecans: Toasting them first enhances the flavor even more! I just toss them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant.
What is the step-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do you clean cookies? I’ve tried using silicone baking mats too, and they work great! How do I make sure my oven is properly preheated?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside. Whisking helps to evenly distribute the ingredients and prevent clumps. I always do this – it makes a difference in the final texture of the cookies. Don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and Brown Sugar until light. Set aside. What is the best way to make a dough with an electric mixer? Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure the butter is properly softened; otherwise, it will be difficult to cream properly.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not over mix cookies, as this can result in hard cookies. I usually stop mixing when there are still a few streaks of flour and then finish combining by hand. How do you use a spatul
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Gently fold in the rolled oats, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough. I like to use a spatula for this to avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each. Do cookies spread out over a pan? I usually bake in batches to ensure even baking.
Step 7: Bake
I bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. When you take out the cookies, they should be slightly soft in the center. They will continue to set.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. To cool completely. I know it’s tempting to eat them right away, but they taste even better once they’ve cooled down a bit.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Once the cookies have cooled, they’re ready to serve! What are some good ways to enjoy them with a glass of milk or coffee? What are some great gift ideas?
What is the best way to serve it?
Can you make Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies? What are some different things, depending on the occasion?
For Breakfast:What are the best ways to enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or coffee? What are some good ways to start the day with a little bit of sweetness? I sometimes crumble them over yogurt for a more substantial breakfast.
For Brunch:Serve them alongside a fruit platter or cheese board. They add sweetness to a savory spread. I like to arrange them on a pretty plate with some fresh berries for an elegant presentation.
As Dessert:Pair them with whipped cream or ice cream. What are some of the best cookies and ice cream in the world? I also love to drizzle them with caramel sauce.
For Cozy Snacks:Enjoy with a glass of milk or hot chocolate. What are some comfort food recipes for a chilly evening? I always have a batch of these on hand for movie nights.
My family loves these cookies, and we’ve tried them with different pairings. Is it safe to crumble bananas over oatmeal? What is the key to experiment with different flavors and textures?
What are some tips for perfecting Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies?
What are some tricks to make Oatmeal Cranberry Pecans? Cookies every time. What are some of my top tips?
Oatmeal Type:I use old fashioned rolled oats, not instant owls. Is instant oats good for cookies? What are the benefits of rolled oats?
Butter Temperature:Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted. Is it soft enough to cream easily with the sugar, but still hold its shape? I usually take butter out of the fridge about an hour before I start baking.
Don’t Overmix:Be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined, and then fold in the oats, cranberries and pecans by hand.
What is Toasting PeWhat is the best way to toast pecans before adding them to the dough? What is the best way to toast bread? I just toss them in a dry skillet for about 5 minutes until fragrant.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they’re baking. Baking times can vary depending on your oven. The cookies should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out – they will continue to set as they cool.
Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them to firm up and prevents them from breaking.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins. You could add chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or even a pinch of nutmeg. The possibilities are endless! One time I added a tablespoon of molasses, and it gave them a really nice depth of flavor.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later. Here are some tips for storing and reheating them:
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They will stay fresh and chewy. I usually put a piece of bread in the container to help keep them moist.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They may become a bit firmer, but they will still taste great.
Freezer Instructions: Freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving. I like to freeze them in individual portions so I can take out just what I need.
Reheating Tips: If you want to warm up the cookies, you can microwave them for a few seconds or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. I usually just pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are more than just a recipe; they’re a taste of home. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. The combination of chewy oatmeal, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans is simply irresistible. And the aroma that fills your kitchen while they’re baking is pure magic. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like my classic chocolate chip cookies or my peanut butter cookies. They’re all tried-and-true favorites that are sure to please.
Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, I’d love to hear about them too! Don’t forget to rate this recipe and share it with your friends. Enjoy!
Hearty Almond Blueberry Muffins
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup milk preferably whole milk
- 0.25 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup blueberries fresh or frozen
- 0.5 cup sliced almonds toasted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, blend the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the blueberries and toasted almonds.
- Fill the muffin cups about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
