If you’re searching for a little slice of comfort wrapped in the warmth of cinnamon and the wholesome chewiness of oats, let me introduce you to this delightful Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe. These cookies are the perfect balance between soft, sweet, and spicy, crowned with a luscious vanilla icing that makes every bite just a little more special. Whether you’re a longtime oatmeal cookie fan or just discovering their cozy charm, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a truly unforgettable treat that’s as fun to bake as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe plays a key role in building the cookie’s signature texture and flavor. From the creamy butter that contributes to softness to the fragrant spices that add warmth, you’ll see how these basics come together to create a cookie that’s truly next-level delicious.
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened: Provides a rich, tender crumb and adds moisture to the dough.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Gives a deep caramel sweetness and helps keep the cookies chewy.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps create a slight crispness around the edges.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure to the cookies.
- 1 tablespoon molasses: Adds a subtle earthiness and enhances the traditional oatmeal cookie flavor.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Gives a fragrant aroma that complements the spices perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that holds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and creates a light texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm, spicy notes that define the cookie’s character.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a delicate hint of warmth and complexity.
- 3 cups old fashioned rolled oats: The heart of the cookie, adding chew and wholesome texture.
- For the icing: 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to create a sweet, creamy glaze that perfectly balances the spiced cookie.
How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugars
Start by beating your softened butter with both the brown and granulated sugars. This step is essential to incorporate air, ensuring your cookies stay soft and slightly fluffy. You’ll notice the mixture turning lighter in color and texture—an exciting sign you’re on the right track!
Step 2: Adding the Eggs, Molasses, and Vanilla
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure they’re fully absorbed, followed by the molasses and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and a rich depth of flavor, creating that classic oatmeal cookie base we love.
Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combined mix is your flavor powerhouse, distributing the spices and leavening agents evenly throughout the dough.
Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep the cookies tender rather than tough. Then, stir in the rolled oats, making sure every bite packs that delightful chewiness.
Step 5: Baking the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in your preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the center still feels soft. This creates the perfect balance of chewy and crisp.
Step 6: Preparing and Adding the Icing
While your cookies cool completely, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to form a smooth, slightly thick icing. Spread or drizzle this over each cookie, and let it set until it forms that irresistible sweet glaze. This final step elevates the humble oatmeal cookie into a showstopper.
How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon or even some finely chopped nuts over the icing before it sets. This adds a lovely texture contrast and makes your presentation pop.
Side Dishes
These iced oatmeal cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a chai latte, or even a cold glass of milk. The warmth of the spices complements warm drinks, while the sweetness balances the mildness of milk for a classic combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by cinnamon sticks and oatmeal in small bowls for a cozy, inviting display at gatherings. You can also sandwich a thin spread of softened cream cheese or peanut butter between two cookies for a delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The cookies will maintain their soft, chewy texture beautifully, and the icing stays delectably sweet without getting sticky.
Freezing
If you want to keep these goodies around longer, freeze the baked and iced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy, and the flavor and texture will be just like fresh.
Reheating
For that freshly-baked feel, warm leftover cookies in a microwave for about 10 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This will soften the icing slightly and make the oats delightfully fragrant again.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
While quick oats will still work, they tend to create a denser, less chewy texture. Old-fashioned rolled oats give you that classic delightful chewiness that makes this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe so special.
How thick should I make the icing?
The icing should be smooth and slightly thick but still spreadable. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar; if too thick, add a small splash of milk. You want it to hold shape without dripping off the cookies.
Can I add raisins or nuts to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Adding raisins or chopped nuts is a fantastic way to customize your cookies. Just fold in about 1 cup of your preferred mix-ins after stirring in the oats.
What’s the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted and avoid over-mixing the dough. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can also help the cookies maintain their shape.
Is there a way to make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about baking and sharing homemade treats, and this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is a perfect example of that joy. Soft, warmly spiced, and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, these cookies are ideal for cozy afternoons or festive occasions alike. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and discover just how simple ingredients can create something absolutely heartwarming and delicious!
Print
Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully soft and chewy iced oatmeal cookies with a perfect balance of cinnamon and nutmeg spices, topped with a smooth vanilla icing. These classic American cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 3 cups old fashioned rolled oats
Icing
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth cookie texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate fully, then mix in the molasses and vanilla extract to enrich the flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to distribute the leavening and spices evenly.
- Mix Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Add Oats: Stir in the old fashioned rolled oats until they are evenly incorporated throughout the dough, providing texture and heartiness.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft for a chewy texture.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets or wire racks before icing.
- Prepare Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (2 to 3 tablespoons depending on desired consistency), and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly thick.
- Ice Cookies: Spread or drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies evenly and let it set before serving for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- For a chewier texture, slightly underbake the cookies by about one minute.
- Blend 1 cup of the oats into a finer texture before mixing for a more traditional iced oatmeal cookie appearance and softer bite.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
