Name: Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-488995H42M40S
Total time: PT-488995H42M40S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 3 cups old-fashioned oats or quick oats; 3/4 cup vegetable shortening; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 8 reviews

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about biting into a warm, chewy oatmeal cookie fresh from the oven, and nothing transports you back in time quite like the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe. This timeless treat delivers crispy edges, a tender center, and that signature wholesome oat flavor that’s been loved for generations. If you grew up sneaking these from your grandma’s cookie jar, you know what a true classic tastes like! With simple pantry staples and minutes of prep, this recipe brings together everything wonderful about homemade baking—comfort, warmth, and unbeatable aroma—all in just one batch.

Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe is found in its simplicity: every ingredient is tried, tested, and absolutely essential to achieving that crave-worthy taste and texture. Each one plays a starring role, from the sweet base to the hearty oats and everything in between.

Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar makes these cookies chewy in the middle and adds a deep caramel flavor that lingers with every bite.
Vegetable shortening: Gives the cookies that iconic crispness on the outside while keeping the inside tender, just like the old-fashioned originals.
Granulated sugar: Provides that lovely touch of sweetness and helps the cookies brown to perfection.
Water: A small splash goes a long way to achieve just the right dough consistency—never dry and crumbly.
Large egg: Binds the dough, creating structure so each cookie holds together beautifully.
Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla rounds out the flavors and elevates the aroma of every batch.
All-purpose flour: The reliable backbone of the recipe, giving your cookies their body and shape.
Salt: Just a teaspoon brings balance, intensifying the sweetness and highlighting the oats.
Baking soda: Ensures your cookies get that perfect lift and lightness while baking.
Old-fashioned oats or quick oats: The heart and soul of the recipe, providing texture, flavor, and wholesome goodness—don’t substitute instant oats here!

How to Make Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350℉ and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This little bit of prep may seem minor, but it ensures your cookies won’t stick and helps them bake evenly with perfectly golden bottoms.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the brown sugar, shortening, granulated sugar, water, egg, and vanilla extract. Don’t rush this step—the mixture should turn light and creamy, which creates that wonderful cookie texture you’re after in the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Grab another bowl and whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. This may sound like a simple step, but distributing the leavening this way ensures even rising for every cookie.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Add the flour mixture into your bowl of wet ingredients and stir just until blended. Take care not to overmix—your cookies will thank you with their lasting tenderness.

Step 5: Fold in the Oats

Pour in those signature oats and fold until they’re evenly combined. This is where your dough transforms into the hearty, chewy mixture that makes the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe so beloved.

Step 6: Scoop and Space

Using a small cookie scoop or a rounded teaspoon, drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This space gives them room to spread and achieve those lightly crisped edges.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide your trays into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes if you love a crispy, golden cookie. For a softer center with just-set edges, 10 minutes is perfect. Keep an eye on the color—the edges should look golden, and the centers lightly set.

How to Serve Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

A true classic like the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe doesn’t need much, but if you love variety, a pinch of cinnamon sugar or a light dusting of powdered sugar right after baking can add both beauty and a tasty surprise.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate nostalgic treat, or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful homemade dessert. They also make a cozy companion to a hot mug of coffee or tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them on a vintage platter, arrange in glass jars with a ribbon for gifting, or tuck a few into lunchboxes for a special midday pick-me-up. The Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe shines as the centerpiece of any bake sale or casual afternoon gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked, your cookies will stay delicious for days if stored at room temperature in an airtight container. Layer with parchment paper to help preserve their texture and keep them from sticking to each other.

Freezing

These oatmeal cookies freeze beautifully! After cooling completely, pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months and taste just as wonderful once thawed.

Reheating

If you love your cookies warm, simply pop a few in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a 300℉ oven for about 5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked magic and a lightly crisp edge.

FAQs

Can I use butter instead of shortening in the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe?

Absolutely! While the classic version uses shortening for crispness, butter will give you a slightly richer flavor and a chewier texture. Both are delicious—choose whichever suits your mood.

What mix-ins work best for these cookies?

Raisins, chopped walnuts or pecans, semisweet chocolate chips, or even a handful of shredded coconut all make fantastic additions to the base Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe. Just fold them in with the oats for extra flavor and fun.

Can I make the dough ahead and bake later?

Yes! You can chill the dough for up to 48 hours before baking. In fact, a little rest allows the flavors to deepen even more—just let the dough sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before scooping.

Should I use old-fashioned oats or quick oats?

Both work beautifully in the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe, though old-fashioned oats give you a heartier bite and chewier texture. Quick oats blend in a bit more for a smoother cookie—pick based on your texture preference!

Why aren’t my cookies spreading properly?

If your cookies aren’t spreading, your dough might be too cold or you’ve added too much flour. Measure carefully and let the dough warm up slightly before baking. Greasing the baking sheet instead of using parchment can also impact spreading, so always stick with parchment if possible.

Final Thoughts

If you crave authentic, from-scratch comfort, the Original Quaker Oatmeal Cookie Recipe will instantly win a place in your heart—and your recipe box. Give it a try and see why this beloved classic has stood the test of time in kitchens for generations!