Name: Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup mashed cooked sweet potato (about 1 medium); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 3.9 from 39 reviews

If you’re searching for a cookie that combines wholesome ingredients with cozy, sweet flavors, look no further than the Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe. These cookies bring together the natural sweetness of mashed sweet potato with the hearty texture of oats and a warm spice blend, creating a soft, chewy bite that feels like a hug in cookie form. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, an afternoon snack, or just because, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fall’s favorite root veggie in a nostalgic, comforting treat.

Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully simple but absolutely essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe. Each one plays a part in building the cookie’s tender crumb, moistness, and that irresistible warmth.

Mashed cooked sweet potato (1 cup): This adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a lovely orange hue.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): For richness and that buttery flavor that makes cookies irresistible.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds a deep molasses flavor and helps keep the cookies soft.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Balances sweetness and aids in the cookie’s structure.
Large egg (1): Binds all the ingredients together and contributes to the tender texture.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the sweet, warm flavors in the cookie dough.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): The main structural ingredient.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Provides a classic spice note essential to autumnal treats.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise and stay light.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds warm, nutty undertones that complement the cinnamon.
Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 1/2 cups): For chewy texture and a wholesome bite.
Chopped pecans or walnuts (1/2 cup, optional): Adds crunch and a toasty flavor.
Raisins or chocolate chips (1/2 cup, optional): For bursts of sweetness and variety.

How to Make Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Mix Wet Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. Next, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until your mixture is light and fluffy, which is key for that soft, tender texture. Then, mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and the lovely mashed sweet potato until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. This helps distribute the spices evenly and prevents clumps of baking soda, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully and have consistent flavors throughout.

Step 3: Bring the Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet sweet potato mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so aim for a tender balance. Then fold in the oats along with any optional add-ins like nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips, which add texture and bursts of extra flavor.

Step 4: Scoop, Bake, and Cool

Drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until the edges are golden and the centers have set but remain tender. Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps cookies firm up just right without losing moisture.

How to Serve Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe

Garnishes

To brighten up your presentation, try dusting the tops with a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar or a light glaze of maple syrup. A small dollop of cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of melted white chocolate also pairs wonderfully with these cookies, adding a touch of indulgence without overpowering the sweet potato flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies are perfect alongside a warm cup of chai tea or spiced coffee, reinforcing the cozy, fall-inspired vibe. They also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a bowl of warm apple cider for an extra-special treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange these cookies on a rustic wooden platter surrounded by autumn leaves or mini pumpkins. You can even sandwich them with your favorite nut butter or cream cheese spread for a layered dessert that looks as charming as it tastes. Gift-wrapped in parchment and twine, they make heartfelt homemade presents that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain their moist, chewy texture while protecting them from getting stale.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly at room temperature, making them an easy, ready-to-enjoy treat whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy them warm, gently reheat the cookies in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (148°C) for 5 minutes. This revives their softness and enhances the sweet potato’s comforting aroma.

FAQs

Can I use canned sweet potato puree instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Homemade mashed sweet potato or canned puree both work well in this Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe. Just ensure your canned puree is unsweetened and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your cookie dough.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and make sure you use certified gluten-free oats. This will keep your cookies just as delicious while accommodating gluten sensitivities.

What’s the best way to store these cookies for freshness?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live somewhere warm or humid, you might consider refrigeration, but bring them back to room temperature before eating for the best texture and flavor.

Can I swap nuts or raisins for other mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to mix it up with dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, shredded coconut, or even white chocolate chips. This recipe is wonderfully flexible and invites your creativity.

Are these cookies healthy?

These cookies incorporate nutritious ingredients like sweet potatoes and oats, which add fiber and vitamins. While they do contain sugar and butter, they’re a more wholesome, homemade alternative to many store-bought cookies, making them a guilt-free treat you can feel good about enjoying.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got everything you need to bake these scrumptious Sweet Potato Oatmeal Cookies: A Classic Treat Recipe, I encourage you to give it a try. They are guaranteed to bring a smile with every bite, whether you’re sharing with loved ones or sneaking a cookie or two just for yourself. Trust me, this recipe is a seasonal favorite that will make your kitchen smell like pure happiness and your cookie jar the star of the show.