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Oatmeal Cookies

There are so many versions of oatmeal cookies out there, that I usually have a hard time choosing a favorite.  A good oatmeal cookie has to have dried fruit (almost always raisins) and no nuts for me.  Chocolate chips in my oatmeal cookies?  I don't need them, but they're a nice touch.  This version has dried cranberries, dried apricots and some spicy candied ginger.  Whenever I make a batch to share with friends or family members, they always give me that puzzled look and ask me what's in them.  As soon as I say candied ginger, they pay attention.  Try making these and see if you can eat just one.  I'm not so sure you will. 



The Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (not instant), coarsely ground
  • 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
  • 4 tablespoons candied ginger, finely chopped
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 3/4 cups packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract



Preheat your oven to 350° F

In a large bowl, sift your flour, baking powder, salt & cinnamon.  Add your coarsely ground oatmeal and all of the dried fruit.  Mix well.  In a separate bowl, beat your butter and sugar until creamy and well mixed (either using a stand or handheld mixer).  Add your eggs one at a time and beat until the mixture is no longer slick.  Add your vanilla and slowly add your dry ingredients.  Mix thoroughly, but don't overbeat.


This is what your cookie dough will look like.  So chock-full of good things.


On a silpat or parchment lined baking sheet, portion out your dough using a 1" ice cream scoop and space about 2" apart.  Dip the bottom of a flat glass in some water and flatten out the cookies just slightly.


Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 14-16 minutes or until they're slightly browned around the edges.  No darker!

Yield: Shy of 3 dozen cookies.


These oatmeal cookies are a bit more sophisticated than the ones your used to.  Trust me, though, when I tell you that they are absolutely and positively addictive.  If you're like me, you're going to want to make a second batch to give to your friends and relatives.  These cookies are sure to please kids of all ages.  Enjoy making them!  

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