oatmeal cookies with leftover oatmeal

3 min read 23-11-2024

Meta Description: Transform leftover oatmeal into warm, chewy oatmeal cookies! This recipe uses simple ingredients and provides step-by-step instructions for perfectly baked cookies. Learn how to customize your cookies with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit. Don't let that leftover oatmeal go to waste; bake some delicious treats today!

Introduction: Repurposing Leftover Oatmeal

We've all been there – a big batch of oatmeal cooked, and now there’s leftover oatmeal staring back from the fridge. Before you toss it, consider this: leftover oatmeal is a fantastic base for delicious oatmeal cookies! This recipe shows you how to turn those leftovers into a sweet treat, minimizing food waste and maximizing flavor.

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe is simple and adaptable; feel free to adjust based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

1 cup leftover cooked oatmeal (rolled oats work best)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup packed light brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, raisins, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, etc.

Instructions: Baking Your Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oatmeal

If your leftover oatmeal is cold, gently warm it in the microwave for about 30 seconds to soften it. This will help it incorporate better into the dough.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Incorporate Oatmeal and Add-ins

Gently fold in the cooked oatmeal and any desired add-ins.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Leave some space between cookies as they will spread.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious, repurposed oatmeal cookies!

Tips for the Perfect Oatmeal Cookie

Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will result in tough cookies.
Chill the dough: For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Get creative with add-ins: Experiment with different nuts, dried fruits, spices, or chocolate chips to create your own unique oatmeal cookie recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use quick-cooking oats instead of leftover oatmeal?

While this recipe is designed for leftover rolled oats, you can likely substitute quick-cooking oats. However, the texture of the cookies might be slightly different.

How long can I store leftover oatmeal cookies?

Store leftover oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion: Waste Less, Bake More!

Turning leftover oatmeal into delicious cookies is a fantastic way to reduce food waste and enjoy a tasty treat. This recipe is easy to follow, adaptable to your preferences, and a perfect way to use up those extra oats. So, next time you have leftover oatmeal, don't throw it away – bake some cookies instead! Enjoy!