Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
If you’re craving a delightful treat that’s chewy, sweet, and topped with a luscious glaze, you’re in for a real treat with this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe. Each bite balances the hearty texture of old-fashioned oats with the cozy warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, all crowned by a smooth, sweet icing that’s just the right touch to make these cookies utterly irresistible. Whether for a weekend baking project or a thoughtful homemade gift, this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful, using classic ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect cookie. From the creamy butter that enriches the dough to the warming spices that elevate the flavor, every ingredient is essential for a deliciously satisfying result.
- ½ cup butter, softened: Provides richness and ensures the cookies stay tender and chewy.
- ⅓ cup brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the dough.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with cookie structure.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1 egg, at room temperature: Binds ingredients and adds moisture for a soft texture.
- 1 ¼ cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats: Brings hearty chewiness and classic oatmeal cookie texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the necessary structure to hold everything together.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a gentle, comforting spice note that complements the oats.
- Pinch of nutmeg: Contributes a subtle warmth that lifts the cookie flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- ¾ cup powdered sugar: Essential for creating the sweet icing glaze on top.
- 1.5 tablespoons milk: Gives the glaze a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a final touch of flavor to the icing.
How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick to the pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to incorporating air into the dough, resulting in a tender cookie. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking everything together until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the oats, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add these dry ingredients to your creamed butter mixture, stirring carefully while scraping the sides of the bowl, until everything is thoroughly combined. This creates the perfect balanced dough with spices that gently awaken the palate.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Using a cookie scoop to evenly portion the dough, shape 8 balls and place them neatly on the lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly—it helps the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect soft texture. Bake for 10 minutes, being careful not to overbake since you want a chewy finish rather than a crispy crunch.
Step 5: Cool the Cookies
Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 20 minutes. This resting time lets the cookies set up and become easier to handle without breaking. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which is essential before you move on to glazing.
Step 6: Prepare the Icing Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust the glaze’s thickness by adding a little more milk if needed—aim for a consistency that’s thick enough to coat the tops yet fluid enough for dipping.
Step 7: Glaze the Cookies
Dip the tops of each fully cooled cookie into the glaze, letting the excess drip off gently. Place them back on the wire rack to allow the icing to set and harden slightly, creating that delightful sweet layer that makes this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe truly special.
How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
You can keep it classic or add a festive touch by sprinkling chopped nuts, cinnamon sugar, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate over the glaze while it’s still wet. These little extras add texture and a bit of flair to your cookies that are sure to impress anyone you share them with.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk, a cup of rich coffee, or a lightly spiced chai tea. Their homey, comforting flavors make them an ideal companion for your favorite cozy drink during afternoon breaks or after-dinner treats.
Creative Ways to Present
For gifting or entertaining, stack iced oatmeal cookies in a pretty tin lined with parchment paper. Tie the stack with a simple ribbon, or arrange them on a charming dessert platter with fresh fruit and flowers for a delightful, inviting presentation that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These iced oatmeal cookies keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The glaze will maintain its sweetness and delicate texture while the cookie stays moist and tender.
Freezing
If you want to prolong their life, freeze the undecorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready, thaw completely before glazing. After icing, let the glaze set and then store in the fridge or freeze again for longer storage.
Reheating
If you love your cookies warm, gently reheat them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the glaze overly soft and the cookie a bit chewy in a less pleasant way.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
While quick oats might seem like an easy substitute, old-fashioned rolled oats provide a chewier texture that’s central to the cookie’s character. You can use quick oats in a pinch, but expect a softer, less textured cookie.
Is it necessary to soften the butter before creaming?
Yes! Softened butter blends more easily with sugar, trapping air that helps create a light, tender cookie. Cold or melted butter won’t give you the same texture.
Can I make the glaze without milk?
You can swap milk for a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk, which will still give you a smooth glaze but may slightly alter the flavor. Just keep the consistency in mind and adjust as needed.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Make sure your dough isn’t too warm before baking, chill if necessary, and flatten the dough balls only slightly. Avoid over-flattening, as this can lead to overly thin cookies.
What makes these cookies “iced”?
The term “iced” refers to the sweet powdered sugar glaze that’s dipped onto the fully cooled cookies, adding a shiny, smooth, and flavorful layer that transforms standard oatmeal cookies into a special treat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and joyful about biting into an iced oatmeal cookie that’s soft, chewy, and kissed with just the right hint of spice and sweetness. I truly encourage you to give this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe a try—whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe brings warmth and happiness to any kitchen. Happy baking and even happier snacking!
Print
Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Iced Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, featuring a soft and chewy texture with warm spices and a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a comforting dessert, these cookies combine wholesome oats with a simple, flavorful icing that adds a perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, at room temperature
- 1 & ¼ cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Glaze Ingredients
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1.5 tablespoons milk
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat until well combined and creamy.
- Add egg and vanilla: Mix in the egg and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring even incorporation.
- Combine dry ingredients: Stir together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, scraping down the sides of the bowl to form a consistent dough.
- Shape the cookies: Use a cookie scoop to portion out 8 equal dough balls. Place them spaced on the prepared baking sheet and gently flatten each slightly.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until they are just set. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Cool on sheet: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 20 minutes to firm up before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Prepare glaze: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract together until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if necessary to ensure it is dip-able but not too runny.
- Glaze the cookies: Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the glaze and place them back on the wire rack. Let the glaze set before serving to enjoy a sweet, smooth finish.
Notes
- For softer cookies, be careful not to overbake.
- You can substitute the vanilla in the glaze with almond extract for a different flavor.
- Make sure the egg is at room temperature to help with better creaming and texture.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- The glaze can be made thicker by using less milk if you prefer a more opaque coating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
