Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Old fashioned iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that everyone loves. This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is perfect for after-school snacks, holiday gatherings, or cozy rainy days. These cookies feature a crispy outer layer with a chewy center, all topped with a creamy vanilla icing that makes them irresistible. They are easy to make and will surely impress your family and friends on any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 22 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of oats, cinnamon, and nutmeg gives these cookies a warm, inviting flavor.
• Fun for Everyone: Kids and adults alike will enjoy decorating these cookies with icing.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a school party or a cozy evening at home, these cookies fit right in.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for later use.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gathering the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Cookie scoop
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: An electric mixer makes creaming the shortening and sugars easy and efficient.
• Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures even-sized cookies that bake uniformly.
• Wire rack: A wire rack is essential for cooling the cookies properly without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

To create these tasty iced oatmeal cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 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 Icing

• 4 T milk
• 2 C. powdered sugar (sifted)
• water (as needed)

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Shortening and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and sugars until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Liquid Ingredients

Beat in the water and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing well. Fold in the oats gently until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto greased baking sheets using a medium cookie scoop. Bake in a preheated oven at 350° F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

While the cookies cool, prepare your icing by stirring together milk and powdered sugar. Add water one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Ice Your Cookies

Once cooled, quickly dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze. Allow any excess icing to drip off before setting them aside to let the glaze set.

Enjoy your delicious homemade iced oatmeal cookies!

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for an after-school snack or a dessert at a gathering, these cookies pair well with several accompaniments.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic choice! The creaminess of milk complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon break.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two iced oatmeal cookies to create an ice cream sandwich filled with your favorite flavor, adding a delightful twist.

Fruit Compote Topping

• Serve cookies topped with warm fruit compote for an added layer of flavor and texture.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange iced oatmeal cookies on a dessert platter alongside other treats for variety during parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Perfecting your iced oatmeal cookies is all about the details. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to the fluffy texture of the cookies.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined for chewy and tender cookies rather than tough ones.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies; remove them from the oven when they are golden but still soft in the center.
• Cool on wire racks: Allowing them to cool properly prevents sogginess and ensures they maintain their structure.
• Experiment with spices: Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate flavors, making each batch unique.
• Store properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming hard.

Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Iced oatmeal cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a deliciously healthy side that balances indulgence.
3. Nut Butter Spread: Serve with almond or peanut butter for an extra protein boost and rich flavor pairing.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide savory notes that balance the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Granola Bars: Offer homemade granola bars as an alternative treat, adding variety without losing the wholesome aspect.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: Light and nutritious, chia pudding can provide a lovely texture contrast while being a healthier option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking iced oatmeal cookies can be simple, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the final result.

• Using the wrong type of oats – Quick oats are ideal for this recipe as they blend well, while rolled oats may yield a chewier texture. Stick with quick oats for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Use precise measurements for flour and sugar. Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing cookies to cool on a wire rack is essential; skipping this can result in soggy bottoms or uneven icing.
• Making the glaze too thick – If your glaze is too thick, it won’t coat the cookies evenly. Add water slowly until you reach the desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Place uniced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag; they will keep well for up to three months.

Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for best results.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a pan over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to our iced oatmeal cookies recipe.

How do I make my iced oatmeal cookies softer?

To ensure softer iced oatmeal cookies, avoid overbaking them and use more brown sugar as it retains moisture better than white sugar.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the iced oatmeal cookies recipe?

Yes! You can replace shortening with coconut oil or butter for different flavors. For added variety, consider adding raisins or chocolate chips.

What should I do if my glaze is too thin?

If your glaze ends up too thin, simply add more powdered sugar gradually until you achieve your desired thickness.

How long do iced oatmeal cookies last?

Iced oatmeal cookies can typically last up to one week in an airtight container at room temperature or longer if refrigerated properly.

Final Thoughts

This iced oatmeal cookies recipe offers a delightful combination of crispy edges and chewy centers topped with creamy vanilla icing. With endless customization options—like adding spices or mix-ins—these treats are perfect for any occasion. Try making them today!