Lacy Oatmeal Cookies

Lacy Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of oats with a thin, crisp texture that practically melts in your mouth. These cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or as a light dessert. Their delicate, lace-like appearance makes them as beautiful as they are delicious, and they’re surprisingly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Lacy Oatmeal Cookies

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the rolled oats, flour, salt, and baking powder to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Scoop and Bake

1. Drop teaspoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 3 inches apart as these cookies will spread considerably during baking.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Baking Time: Keep an eye on these cookies as they bake quickly. They should be golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• Spacing: Make sure to leave plenty of space between the cookies, as they spread a lot during baking to create their signature lace-like appearance.
• Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their crispness.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Once the cookies have cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Nutty Addition: Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts (like pecans or almonds) to the dough for an added layer of texture and flavor.
• Coconut Oatmeal Cookies: Stir in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist on this classic recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats?

It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe, as quick oats will not provide the same texture and may result in less crispy cookies.

2. Why Did My Cookies Spread Too Much?

If your cookies spread too much, it may be because the dough was too warm. Make sure to let the butter cool slightly before adding the remaining ingredients, or chill the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking.

3. How Should I Store These Cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If they lose their crispness, you can reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.

4. Can I Freeze the Dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

Lacy Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious. With their crisp texture, nutty oats, and light sweetness, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, drizzled with chocolate, or with a hint of coconut, they are sure to be a hit. Enjoy these lovely, lace-like cookies with friends and family, or savor them as a special treat just for yourself.

Happy baking!