School Day Cookies

School Day Cookies Recipe

As the autumn leaves began to change, bringing with them the crisp air of September, I couldn’t help but reminisce about my childhood school days. There was a unique magic about this time of year—new notebooks waiting to be filled, freshly sharpened pencils, and of course, the sweet smell of cookies wafting through our home. My mother had a signature treat that would greet us after a long day at school: her beloved School Day Cookies. These were not just any cookies; they were a tradition steeped in love, laughter, and a sprinkle of nostalgia.

I remember running into the house, my backpack nearly toppling over as I raced to the kitchen, where the aroma of warm butter and brown sugar danced through the air. The sight of my mom, effortlessly mixing the ingredients, was a comfort I looked forward to every day. As she blended the oatmeal into the dough, she’d share stories about her own school days, emphasizing the importance of friendship and creativity. Each cookie was a lesson in love—filled with plump raisins and crunchy walnuts, they were as nutritious as they were delicious.

Whenever I would take a bite, the sweetness would transport me back to those moments spent laughing with friends during lunch breaks. My mother believed that food brought people together, and her cookies were the glue that held our family close. On Fridays, she would pack a dozen of these treats into my lunchbox, slipping in a handwritten note of encouragement. Little did she know, those cookies not only satisfied my hunger but also fortified my spirit.

Today, I carry that tradition forward, baking School Day Cookies for my own family. The smiles on their faces as they devour these treats remind me of my childhood joy, and I find it comforting to know that I am passing down a piece of my history. Whether it’s a school day treat or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to create memories that last a lifetime.

So, if you’re looking for a delightful recipe that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also carries a story of love and connection, look no further. Let’s dive into the recipe for these School Day Cookies, and perhaps they will bring a bit of nostalgia and sweetness into your life too.

Making School Day Cookies

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups finely ground oatmeal (processed in a food processor)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Directions

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter along with both types of sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and airy.
  • Add the eggs individually, mixing well after each addition, then pour in the vanilla extract and blend until everything is incorporated.
  • In another bowl, mix the flour, ground oatmeal, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Finally, fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts.
  • Form the cookie dough into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter and arrange them on ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each ball.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies’ edges turn a light golden brown.
  • After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 1 minute before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storing Suggestion

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to three months.

Cooking Tips

For a chewy texture, avoid overbaking the cookies. If you prefer softer cookies, take them out when they are still slightly underbaked. Consider adding chocolate chips for a delightful twist!

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa. They make a wonderful snack paired with fresh fruit or as a dessert alongside vanilla ice cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

Unsalted butter can be replaced with coconut oil or margarine for a dairy-free option. Instead of walnuts, try using pecans or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.

Seasonal Variations

In the fall, consider adding pumpkin spice to the dough for a seasonal flavor. During the holidays, incorporating chopped dried cranberries or chocolate chunks can make for a festive treat.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and nuts. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free. Use dairy-free butter alternatives for a dairy-free version.

FAQ:

How can I make these cookies healthier?

You can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce and reduce the sugar slightly. Using whole grain flour instead of all-purpose flour can also add nutritional value.

Can I add other mix-ins to these cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to include chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even chopped dried fruits for additional flavors and textures.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to shape into balls.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make more cookies. Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and oven space to accommodate them.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

School Day Cookies Recipe

School Day Cookies

Bake School Day Cookies today and enjoy a sweet connection to family traditions, perfect for school days or any time you crave comfort.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Course Cookies
Cuisine American
Servings 4 dozen

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups finely ground oatmeal blend oatmeal in a food processor
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1/2 cup walnuts chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground oatmeal, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, beating until fully combined. Stir in the raisins and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed in the dough.
  • Shape the dough into balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter and place them 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 1 minute before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • This recipe yields approximately 4 dozen cookies. Enjoy!
Keyword Cookies