There’s nothing quite like a classic cookie, and these Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies deliver the perfect mix of chewy texture and warm spice.
With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, plus the wholesome heartiness of oats, these cookies are simple, nostalgic, and always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
They have the perfect chewy texture with just enough crisp on the edges.
Warm spices make them cozy and flavorful.
The recipe is quick, easy, and uses pantry staples.
Perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or holiday cookie trays.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Old fashioned oats provide texture and a hearty bite.
Cinnamon and nutmeg add warm, comforting flavor.
A mix of white and brown sugar creates sweetness and chewiness.
Melted butter makes for soft, rich cookies without needing a mixer.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pulse the oats lightly—leave some pieces intact for texture.
Don’t overbake; they should be golden at the edges but soft in the center.
Cool slightly on the baking sheet to help them set before moving.
How to Make Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1 – Preheat the oven
Set oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner.
Step 2 – Prepare the oats and dry mix
Pulse oats in a food processor until partially ground.
Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix and set aside.
Step 3 – Make the wet mixture
Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
Stir in white sugar and brown sugar until combined. Let cool slightly.
Step 4 – Add eggs
Whisk in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
Step 5 – Combine wet and dry
Stir dry ingredients into wet ingredients until dough forms.
Step 6 – Shape and bake
Scoop 2-teaspoon portions of dough onto prepared sheet, spacing well.
Bake 7–8 minutes until edges are golden.
Step 7 – Cool
Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.
What to Serve Them With
A glass of cold milk for the classic pairing.
Hot tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
Vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert twist.
Variations / Substitutions
Add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
Mix in chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
Swap half the oats for quick oats for a slightly softer texture.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats.
Can I use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Not for this recipe—they bake beautifully right away.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just bake in batches to avoid overcrowding.
How do I make them crispier?
Bake 1–2 minutes longer and cool fully on the rack.
Can I add nuts?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts work well.
Final Thoughts
Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies are simple, comforting, and full of flavor.
Whether for everyday snacking or holiday baking, this recipe is one you’ll return to over and over.

Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookies
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone liner.
- Pulse oats in a food processor until partially ground.
- In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, melt butter. Stir in white sugar and brown sugar. Let cool slightly.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Stir dry ingredients into wet until combined.
- Scoop 2 teaspoons of dough onto prepared sheet, leaving space between cookies.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/old-fashioned-oatmeal-cookies/
Notes
- Partially grinding oats keeps the cookies chewy while preventing them from being too chunky.
- Adjust baking time for desired texture — shorter for chewier cookies, longer for crispier edges.