Oatmeal raisin cookies are truly the unsung heroes of the cookie world. Not only are they packed with wholesome oats that provide a boost of fiber and nutrients, but the sweet, chewy raisins add a delightful texture and natural sweetness to every bite.

These cookies strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition, making them a satisfying treat that feels a bit more virtuous than their chocolate-filled counterparts. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a comforting snack any time of day.

Why you’ll love this recipe:

  • Better-for-you ingredients: Old-fashioned oats and applesauce make these cookies a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
  • Simple and fun: Everyday ingredients, easy steps, and minimal cleanup.
  • Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, coconut, or anything your heart desires.
  • Cozy and comforting: The cinnamon-spiced aroma will have everyone running to the kitchen.

The oat-based treat features a nice crispy, golden outside, a soft, chewy inside and sweet pops of raisin throughout. (Hey, you can even add chocolate chips if you’d like!) I make them often in my house, using whole wheat or whole wheat white flour instead of regular all-purpose flour, a simple swap with nice payoffs (hello, fiber and vitamins). I also replace the butter or oil used in most standard recipes with natural applesauce to reduce the fat and sugar. I love the way the warm, comforting spices fill my kitchen with the most irresistible smells—my mouth waters and my tummy rumbles—and I can’t wait for them to come out of the oven.

If the thought of healthier homemade oaty treats gets you really excited, I’ve got even more irresistible recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth! Craving a dessert that doubles as a serving showstopper? Try my Skillet Oatmeal Raisin Cookie—it’s perfect for sharing. Need something quick and personal-sized? My Single-Serve Jumbo Oatmeal Cookie is the ultimate cozy indulgence, baked just for you. And for those who love sneaking tastes straight from the mixing bowl, my Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough is a must-try—safe to eat raw and totally delicious. Each recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients and the perfect balance of sweet and satisfying. Trust me, you’ll want to make them all!

For more tasty cookie recipes, try my Chocolate Chip Chamomile Cookies and Brain-Boosting Breakfast Cookies!

(5 stars) 5 ratings

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

While chocolate chip cookies may be considered America’s favorite, there’s an underrated gem in the jar: Oatmeal raisin.
Yield: 24 Cookies
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ½ cup flour, preferably whole wheat pastry flour or whole wheat-white flour*
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
  • ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips, optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350˚. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a medium bowl, add oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg and mix thoroughly.*
  • In another bowl, combine applesauce, eggs, maple syrup and vanilla extract.
  • Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix just until everything is incorporated. Fold in raisins. If using optional chocolate chips, add them to batter.
  • Use about 1 tablespoon of batter per cookie and drop onto baking sheet. Press down lightly with fingers to slightly flatten cookies. If the batter is too sticky, you can either slightly wet your fingers or place in the fridge to chill before adding to baking sheet. Bake at 350 for 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool for 2 to 3 minutes; then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container on the counter. Separate with parchment paper between the layers.

Notes

* You can use any flour you prefer, but whole wheat pastry flour and whole wheat-white flour are variations of whole grain that are softer and work well in baked goods.
• If using chocolate chips, add about 10 calories, 1 g sugar per cookie.
Author: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, CDN

Nutrition Information per serving

Serving Size: 1cookieCalories: 55Carbohydrates: 11gProtein: 1gTotal Fat: 1gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 82mgFiber: 1gTotal Sugar: 5g— Natural Sugar: 2g— Added Sugar: 3gCalcium: 21mg
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.
I’m hoping you loved this recipe! If you made it and want to share feedback, I’d be so grateful to hear from you. Please leave a review below or tag @joybauer on Instagram!