If you’re on the lookout for a comforting and nostalgic treat, look no further than these delicious Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies. With a chewy texture and rich flavor, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. The best part? They are incredibly easy to make and require minimal equipment. Let’s dive into the world of baking these delightful cookies that are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or bringing a batch to a gathering.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First off, the combination of old-fashioned oats and brown sugar creates a chewy and satisfying texture. The melted butter lends a rich flavor, while the baking soda ensures the cookies rise beautifully, giving them that perfect homemade feel. Not to mention, the simplicity of mixing everything together in a paper bag not only reduces cleanup but also allows for a fun, nostalgic baking experience.
Gather These Ingredients
Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted (allow to cool slightly before adding)
- 1/4 cup water
Make sure your oats are old-fashioned for the best texture. Quick oats won’t work quite the same, so stick with the traditional ones for that chewy goodness.
Gear Checklist
Before you begin baking, gather the necessary equipment:
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups: To ensure accuracy with your ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For mixing the dough.
- Baking Sheet: To place the cookies on while baking.
- Parchment Paper: Optional, but it helps with easy cleanup.
- Paper Bag: The star of the show for mixing the dough.
Using a paper bag not only adds to the fun but also ensures that the ingredients are well mixed without the need for any fancy gadgets.
Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and gear, let’s get started with the baking process!
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by measuring out all your ingredients carefully. It’s important to use the correct amounts to achieve the perfect cookie texture.
Step 2: Mix in the Paper Bag
Take your paper bag and combine the old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt directly in the bag. Seal the bag and shake it gently to mix everything together evenly.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, melt your butter and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, pour the melted butter and water into the paper bag. Seal the bag again and shake vigorously until the mixture is well combined and forms a dough.
Step 4: Scoop the Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is different.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage!
Spring to Winter: Ideas
These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed year-round. Here are some ideas to make them even more special:
- Add chocolate chips for a gooey twist.
- Toss in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture.
- Incorporate nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Sprinkle some cinnamon into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
You can even switch things up based on the season—think pumpkin spice in the fall or fresh citrus zest in the spring!
Avoid These Mistakes
To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Using quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats, which can lead to a different texture.
- Overmixing the dough, which can make the cookies tough.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately, which can result in a dry or overly wet dough.
- Skipping the cooling step for the melted butter, which can affect the final cookie consistency.
Avoiding these common mistakes will help you achieve the best results every time you make Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies.
Save It for Later
If you find yourself with extra cookies or want to save some for later, here are a few tips:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
- To bring back that fresh-baked taste, simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.
These cookies not only taste great fresh but also hold up nicely for later snacking.
Questions People Ask
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
It’s best to stick with old-fashioned oats for this recipe. Quick oats will change the texture and may result in a less chewy cookie.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips can be added for a delicious twist that pairs perfectly with the oatmeal base.
What can I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough seems too dry, you can add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
If you love these Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies, you might also enjoy:
These recipes also celebrate the wholesome goodness of oats and are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
That’s a Wrap
In conclusion, Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies are not just a delightful treat, but they also bring a bit of nostalgia into the kitchen. The process of mixing in a paper bag adds an element of fun, making it a great activity to share with friends or family. With their chewy texture and rich flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit, no matter the occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a batch of these delicious cookies today!
Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by measuring out all your ingredients carefully. It’s important to use the correct amounts to achieve the perfect cookie texture.
- Take your paper bag and combine the old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt directly in the bag. Seal the bag and shake it gently to mix everything together evenly.
- In a separate bowl, melt your butter and allow it to cool slightly. Once cooled, pour the melted butter and water into the paper bag. Seal the bag again and shake vigorously until the mixture is well combined and forms a dough.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is different.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Paper Bag Oatmeal Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage!
Notes
- For a gooey twist, add chocolate chips to the dough.
- Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
