Old fashioned iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that brings nostalgia with every bite. This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is perfect for various occasions, from after-school snacks to festive gatherings. With their crispy edges and chewy centers, these cookies are dipped in a creamy vanilla icing that makes them irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or served at a party, they offer comfort and sweetness in every mouthful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Make: This recipe can be whipped up in just 22 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute cravings.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: The combination of oats, spices, and icing creates a delicious blend that pleases everyone’s palate.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies can be enjoyed any time of the year—perfect for holidays or casual get-togethers.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids love to help dip these cookies in icing, making it a fun baking activity for families.
- Great for Storage: These cookies stay fresh for days, so you can make them ahead of time!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your iced oatmeal cookies, gather your tools for an efficient process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Cookie scoop
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming the shortening and sugars quick and easy, ensuring a fluffy texture.
- Cookie scoop: Helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking and attractive presentation.
Ingredients
To make these delicious iced oatmeal cookies, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cookies
- 3/4 cup shortening
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
- 3/4 tsp. cinnamon
- 2 cups oats (quick cooking or old fashioned)
For the Glaze
- 4 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- Water (as needed)
How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream Shortening and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream the shortening and both sugars together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the water and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed mixture while mixing well.
Step 4: Fold in Oats
Gently fold in the oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Sheets
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto greased baking sheets using a medium cookie scoop.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Let them stand for about 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Glaze
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze by stirring together milk and powdered sugar. Add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Dip Cookies in Glaze
Once cooled, quickly dip the top of each cookie into the glaze. Allow excess glaze to drip off before setting aside to let it harden.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade iced oatmeal cookies!
How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that pairs well with various beverages and can be served in multiple ways. Whether for an after-school snack or a dessert at a gathering, these cookies can impress everyone.
With Milk
- A classic pairing, serving iced oatmeal cookies with a cold glass of milk enhances their flavor and texture.
As Dessert
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. The warm cookie and cold ice cream create a perfect balance.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The spices in the cookies complement the warmth of these beverages nicely.
At Parties
- Arrange them on a platter at your next get-together. Guests can grab one (or two!) as they mingle, making them an easy party snack.
How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Achieving the perfect iced oatmeal cookies takes a bit of technique. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out fantastic every time.
- Use room temperature shortening: This helps create a light and fluffy texture when creaming with sugars.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the oats, mix just until incorporated to keep your cookies chewy.
- Watch baking time closely: Every oven is different; check your cookies around 10 minutes to avoid over-baking.
- Cool before icing: Allowing the cookies to cool prevents the icing from melting off and helps it set properly.
Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Pairing side dishes with iced oatmeal cookies can elevate your snack time or dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies. - Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that complements the texture of the cookies. - Cheese Platter
Offer a variety of cheeses to create an interesting contrast to the sweetness of iced oatmeal cookies. - Chocolate Milkshake
A rich chocolate milkshake makes for an indulgent combo that kids will love. - Nutty Trail Mix
A crunchy trail mix adds a nice texture contrast and is great for munching alongside the soft cookies. - Caramel Sauce Dip
Serve warm caramel sauce for dipping; it adds an extra layer of sweetness that will delight any sweet tooth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking iced oatmeal cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold shortening can result in a less fluffy texture. Make sure your shortening is at room temperature for better creaming.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Skipping the cooling time: Remove cookies from the oven too soon and they may fall apart. Allow them to cool on a wire rack as instructed for optimal texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your recipe. Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to ensure consistency.
- Ignoring glaze consistency: If your glaze is too thick, it won’t coat well. Adjust with water until it reaches your desired consistency for dipping.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will last up to 1 week while maintaining their freshness.
Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, checking for warmth.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my iced oatmeal cookies more chewy?
To enhance chewiness, consider adding an extra tablespoon of shortening or using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the iced oatmeal cookies recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or mini chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of shortening in this recipe?
You can substitute butter or coconut oil for shortening if you prefer. Just ensure they are at room temperature when mixing.
How long do iced oatmeal cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies remain fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
This iced oatmeal cookies recipe is perfect for any occasion, from school parties to family gatherings. With its delicious combination of crispy edges and chewy centers, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate to customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Old-fashioned iced oatmeal cookies are a nostalgic treat that combines crispy edges with chewy centers, all topped with a creamy vanilla glaze. This delightful recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether as an after-school snack or a festive dessert at gatherings. With just the right balance of spices and sweetness, these cookies are sure to evoke fond memories. Quick to prepare and easy to store, they make for a fun baking activity with kids and can be enjoyed with a glass of milk or served alongside coffee and tea.
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup shortening
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups oats (quick cooking or old-fashioned)
- 4 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted, for glaze)
- water (as needed for glaze)
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy in a large bowl.
- Beat in water and vanilla extract until combined.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon; gradually add to the creamed mixture.
- Fold in oats gently until evenly mixed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto greased baking sheets.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown; cool on wire racks.
- Prepare glaze by mixing milk and powdered sugar; adjust consistency with water.
- Dip cooled cookies in glaze and let set.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use room temperature shortening for better texture. Don't overmix after adding oats to keep cookies chewy. Ensure cookies cool before glazing to avoid melting.
