Oatmeal Scotchies

Oatmeal Scotchies have to be the most underrated cookie flavor out there! The delightful combination of chewy oats and sweet butterscotch chips creates a cookie that is both comforting and irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will impress guests at parties, serve as a sweet treat in lunchboxes, or simply satisfy your cravings on a cozy afternoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these cookies in no time!
• Irresistible Flavor: The unique blend of butterscotch and oats offers a flavor that stands out among traditional cookies.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to please everyone—from kids to adults—making them perfect for gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them fresh from the oven or store them for later; they taste great either way!
• Customizable Add-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to personalize your batch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. This will help streamline your experience and ensure you have everything ready at hand.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface ensures even baking and easy transfer of cookies in and out of the oven.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to remove cookies without breaking them.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Base

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar (150g)
• 1 large egg, room temperature (56g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (4ml)

Dry Ingredients

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (95g)
• 1/2 tsp baking soda (3g)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, optional (1g)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg, optional

Oats and Chips

• 1 1/2 cups old fashioned or rolled oats (120g)
• 1 cup butterscotch chips (175g)

How to Make Oatmeal Scotchies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and light brown sugar. Beat them together until light and fluffy—about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in the large egg and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Stir in Oats and Butterscotch Chips

Fold in the rolled oats and butterscotch chips gently until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie as they will spread during baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 13 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. The centers may look slightly underbaked, which is perfect for chewy cookies.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Oatmeal Scotchies!

How to Serve Oatmeal Scotchies

Oatmeal Scotchies are delightful cookies that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the butterscotch chips and the chewiness of the oats.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Adding crumbled Oatmeal Scotchies to vanilla or caramel ice cream creates a delicious dessert with extra texture.

As a Snack with Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or afternoon brew for a sweet pick-me-up.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package them in a decorative box or tin as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair these cookies with slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears for a balanced treat.

How to Perfect Oatmeal Scotchies

Making perfect Oatmeal Scotchies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out chewy and flavorful each time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let butter and eggs sit out before mixing for better incorporation and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes can enhance flavor and prevent spreading during baking.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements to avoid dry cookies.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Try adding nuts or dried fruit for added flavor and texture variety.

Best Side Dishes for Oatmeal Scotchies

Oatmeal Scotchies can be complemented by various side dishes that add balance to their sweetness. Here’s a list of great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and lightness, balancing the rich flavors of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that pairs well with sweets.
3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can provide contrast to the sweetness, making it an elegant choice.
4. Nut Mix
   Combine almonds, walnuts, and dried cranberries for a crunchy snack that complements the chewy texture of the cookies.
5. Homemade Granola Bars
   These bars offer wholesome ingredients that pair nicely while keeping with an oatmeal theme.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels
   The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate provides an enjoyable contrast to the sweetness of Oatmeal Scotchies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Oatmeal Scotchies are delightful, but they can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using cold butter can result in dense cookies. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a softer, chewier cookie.
• Not measuring flour properly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can lead to excess flour. Use a spoon to fluff it up and then spoon it into your measuring cup for accuracy.
• Skipping chilling time: Not chilling the dough can cause cookies to spread too much. Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps maintain their shape.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Oatmeal Scotchies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oatmeal Scotchies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to three months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Oatmeal Scotchies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a soft, chewy texture.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Oatmeal Scotchies?

Oatmeal Scotchies are chewy cookies made with oats and butterscotch chips, creating a delightful sweet combination that is perfect for any occasion.

How do I make Oatmeal Scotchies chewy?

To achieve a chewy texture, avoid overmixing the dough and ensure you don’t bake them too long. Removing them from the oven when they still look slightly underbaked helps maintain chewiness.

Can I substitute ingredients in Oatmeal Scotchies?

Yes! You can substitute butterscotch chips with chocolate chips or add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra flavor and texture.

How do I store Oatmeal Scotchies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage. This keeps them fresh and delicious.

Final Thoughts

Oatmeal Scotchies are a unique twist on traditional cookies, combining chewy oats with sweet butterscotch chips. Their versatility means you can customize them with nuts or different types of chips. Try making these delightful cookies today!