Craving warm, gooey oatmeal chocolate chip cookies but don't want a whole batch? This guide dives into the art of making small batch oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without the commitment of a large baking project. We'll cover everything from ingredient selection to baking tips, ensuring you achieve perfectly chewy, delicious cookies every time.
Why Make Small Batch Cookies?
Several reasons make small-batch baking incredibly appealing:
- Portion Control: Avoid the temptation of eating an entire batch of cookies yourself! Small batches are ideal for managing portions and satisfying cravings without overindulging.
- Less Waste: If you're baking for one or two, a full recipe often leads to leftover cookies that might stale before you finish them. Small batches minimize waste.
- Experimentation: Perfect for trying out new recipes or variations without the risk of making a large quantity of cookies you might not enjoy.
- Convenience: Small batches require less time and effort, perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a quick baking project.
Small Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe (Yields 6-8 cookies)
This recipe provides a delicious base you can customize.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the butter and sugars: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Stir in oats and chocolate chips: Stir in the rolled oats and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Scoop onto baking sheet: Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
- Cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
What Makes Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies Chewy?
The key to achieving that perfect chewy texture lies in the ingredients and baking method:
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar contributes moisture and a richer flavor, promoting chewier cookies.
- Butter: Using softened, not melted, butter helps create a tender crumb.
- Don't Overbake: Overbaking dries out the cookies, resulting in a crisp texture. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking.
How to Store Small Batch Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I Use Different Types of Chocolate Chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even chocolate chunks. You can also add nuts, dried fruits, or other mix-ins to customize your cookies.
What if My Cookies Spread Too Much?
If your cookies spread too much, it's likely due to one of the following reasons: The butter was too warm, the dough wasn't chilled, or the baking soda is old. Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking, using colder butter, or replacing the baking soda.
Are there variations for small batch oatmeal cookies?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist. Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with oat flour for a more intensely oat-flavored cookie. Experiment and find your perfect combination!
This small-batch recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting goodness of oatmeal chocolate chip cookies without the commitment of a large batch. Enjoy!
