Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings comfort and joy, look no further! Our Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are a delightful combination of chewy oats, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it’s so simple to make and fills the kitchen with the most wonderful aroma of spices like cinnamon and ginger.

These cookies are perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick dessert or for family gatherings where everyone will be reaching for a second (or third!) cookie. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just dipping your toes into the world of baking, these cookies promise to delight your taste buds and create lovely memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cookies, and this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you crave them.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of oats, cranberries, and pecans creates a scrumptious treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Gather these items to create your delicious Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies:

• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup butter (1/2 cup stick)
• 6 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 1 cup oats
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 6 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon each: cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg
• 1 cup total mix-ins: dried cranberries (chopped pecans or chocolate chips)

Variations

One of the best parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to mix things up with these variations:

• Add a nutty twist: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Ditch the sweetness: Use unsweetened applesauce instead of sugar for a healthier version.
• Go tropical: Toss in some shredded coconut along with your mix-ins for a fun twist.
• Chocolate lovers unite: Add chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat!

How to Make Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a bowl, combine 1 egg, 1/4 cup of butter, 6 tablespoons of oil, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of hot water. Mixing these wet ingredients well helps create a smooth batter that holds everything together.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, stir in 1 cup of oats, 1 cup of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 6 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1/2 cup of white sugar, and the spices (cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg). This step is crucial as it incorporates all the flavors and gives your cookies their delightful texture.

Step 4: Add Your Mix-Ins

Now it’s time to add your choice of mix-ins! Toss in dried cranberries and chopped pecans (or chocolate chips) until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This adds bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Using a tablespoon, drop portions of cookie dough onto a baking sheet. Bake them for about 12 minutes until the edges turn golden. Keep an eye on them—they’ll be irresistible as they start to smell amazing!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet before indulging. Cooling allows them to firm up just enough while keeping that lovely chewy texture inside.

I hope you enjoy making—and devouring—these Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies as much as I do! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll achieve cookie perfection on your first try!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh oats, nuts, and spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies. Stale ingredients might lead to a less vibrant taste.
• Chill the dough: If you’re short on time, chilling the dough for just 15-30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better while baking. This prevents them from spreading too much and results in a chewier texture.
• Don’t overmix: Gently stir the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which is not the texture we’re aiming for!
• Experiment with mix-ins: While cranberries and pecans are delicious, feel free to swap them out or add unique flavors like dried cherries or walnuts for a twist. This keeps things exciting and personalizes your cookies!
• Watch the baking time: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking your cookies at around 10 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake. You want them golden at the edges but still soft in the center.

How to Serve Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies

These Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are not only scrumptious but also visually appealing! Presenting them well can make all the difference when serving to family or friends.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and makes your cookies look elegant.
• Cinnamon sugar topping: Mix equal parts cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle lightly on top before baking for an extra hint of spice.

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing! The creamy texture complements the chewiness of the cookies perfectly and balances their sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing side that adds a burst of color and natural sweetness. The freshness of fruits like berries or citrus will brighten up your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup beside your cookies makes for a comforting experience, perfect for cozy afternoons or gatherings.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a delightful contrast to your cookies. It’s a great way to make your treat feel more complete!

With these tips on serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress anyone who gets to enjoy your homemade Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, store them properly, and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• For longer freshness, consider layering the cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place the desired number of cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

Have questions? We’ve got answers!

Can I make Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.

How do I know when my Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are done?

The cookies are ready when they turn golden brown around the edges but still look slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

What mix-ins can I use besides cranberries and pecans?

Feel free to get creative! You can use raisins, chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even dairy-free chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making these Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies! Each bite is a wonderful blend of flavors that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings warmth and joy. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or sharing them with friends, I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Happy baking!