If you have a soft spot for classic treats that are both cozy and wholesome, you are going to fall head over heels for this Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe. These cookies bring together the chewy texture of rolled oats and the natural sweetness of plump raisins, all wrapped up in a tender but sturdy bite that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re vegan or just looking to try something a little lighter without sacrificing flavor, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and nostalgia in every single cookie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of a great cookie starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an important role. From the heartiness of rolled oats to the rich, golden touch of coconut oil and the cozy hint of cinnamon, every element here works together to create those iconic oatmeal raisin flavors and textures.
- 1 cup rolled oats: Provides chewy texture and wholesome goodness.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps your cookies rise just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds a tender crumb for perfect bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm, spicy notes that complement the raisins.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1/3 cup coconut oil or vegan butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture with a subtle tropical twist.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Sweetens with a deep molasses flavor that’s key to oatmeal cookies.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce: Keeps the cookies moist and adds a hint of natural sweetness without extra oil.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a fragrant lift that ties everything together.
- 1/2 cup raisins: The classic chewy bursts of sweetness that make these cookies unforgettable.
How to Make Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Preparing this early means you can dive right into mixing without a pause.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This mixture forms the dry base that will give your cookies their signature texture and flavor, ensuring every bite is perfectly spiced and tender.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together your melted coconut oil or vegan butter, brown sugar, applesauce, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. This blend not only sweetens the cookies but also keeps them wonderfully moist.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring well until a dough forms. Gently fold in the raisins. This step brings all the elements together, distributing raisins evenly and ensuring every cookie gets its share of that delightful chewy sweetness.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart to allow for spreading. This spacing helps maintain a nice cookie shape with crisp edges and a tender center.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a lovely light golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes to set up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is essential for that perfect chewy texture.
How to Serve Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking for an extra touch of sweetness and a delightful sparkle. You can also drizzle a light vegan glaze made from powdered sugar and plant-based milk after baking for a nice twist that looks as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm mug of chai or herbal tea to enhance the cinnamon flavors, or enjoy them with your favorite plant-based milk for a classic combo that feels like pure comfort in every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cookies tied with a rustic ribbon as a lovely homemade gift, or serve them alongside a bowl of fresh fruit and vegan yogurt for a balanced and visually appealing dessert or snack plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh and chewy for up to five days. This makes it easy to enjoy a sweet treat anytime without extra fuss or prep.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe going for longer, freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. They can last up to three months frozen without losing their delicious character.
Reheating
To bring frozen or leftover cookies back to life, simply warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or until heated through. This will refresh their soft texture and revive the cozy aroma that makes them so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I substitute the raisins with other dried fruits?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or dried cherries all work beautifully and add their own unique sweetness and texture to your vegan oatmeal raisin cookies.
What’s the best way to make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a certified gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, and make sure your oats are labeled gluten-free. This swap keeps the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing taste.
Can I use another oil instead of coconut oil?
Yes, melted vegan butter or a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil works fine; just keep in mind each oil adds a slightly different flavor and richness to the cookies.
How do I get the perfect chewy texture?
Using applesauce instead of extra oil helps retain moisture for chewiness, while not overbaking is essential. Take the cookies out when edges are just golden, as they continue to firm up as they cool.
Are these cookies kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the sweet chewiness of the raisins combined with the mild cinnamon flavor, plus they’re a great way to sneak in some wholesome oats in a fun treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting about biting into a warm, chewy Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Recipe that feels both nostalgic and wholesome. Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe brings joy with every bite. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie to keep in your kitchen rotation!
