How do I make soft and chewy iced oatmeal cookies?

To make soft and chewy iced oatmeal cookies, use melted butter instead of cold butter for extra moisture. Include brown sugar in your recipe, as it adds both sweetness and chewiness. Avoid overbaking by checking the cookies a minute or two before the suggested time; they should look slightly underdone in the center. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack. For the icing, a simple mix of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract creates a smooth glaze that hardens slightly without making the cookies crunchy.

Can I make iced oatmeal cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can make iced oatmeal cookies gluten-free by substituting regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend labeled for baking. Make sure the oats you use are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur during processing. When using gluten-free flour, adding a small amount of xanthan gum (about 1/4 teaspoon per cup of flour) helps achieve the right texture. The icing recipe remains the same but ensure any added flavorings or extracts are gluten-free as well.

What is the best way to store iced oatmeal cookies to keep them fresh?

Store iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to 4 days. If the icing is still soft, allow it to fully set before stacking cookies to prevent smudging. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature to preserve texture and flavor.

How can I customize the icing flavor for oatmeal cookies?

To customize icing for oatmeal cookies, start with a basic glaze of powdered sugar and milk then add flavor extracts like almond, lemon, or maple for variation. Adding a teaspoon of citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, can brighten the taste. For spiced options, cinnamon or ginger powder mixes well into icing and complements the oatmeal base. Adjust the consistency by adding milk in small amounts until you reach a spreadable but firm glaze that sets well.

Are iced oatmeal cookies a healthier option compared to other cookies?

Iced oatmeal cookies can be a slightly healthier option because oats provide dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and can keep you fuller longer. However, they still contain sugar, butter, and sometimes refined flour, so they should be enjoyed in moderation. Using less icing or a lighter glaze can reduce added sugars. For healthier variations, consider using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar quantities, or incorporating nuts and dried fruits to increase nutrient content without compromising flavor.

Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe With Simple Sweet Glaze

Name: Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 1 h 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (170g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats (pulsed); 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tablespoon unsulphured or dark molasses; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) sifted confectioners’ sugar; 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1.5 to 2 tablespoons milk

Description

🍪 Iced Oatmeal Cookies bring the perfect balance of soft centers and crisp edges with warm spice flavors topped by a creamy vanilla glaze.
✨ The simple sweet glaze adds a beautiful finish and a touch of elegance, making these cookies ideal for any occasion or cozy treat.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups (170g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats (pulsed)

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar

1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

2 large eggs, room temperature

1 tablespoon unsulphured or dark molasses

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 and 1/2 cups (180g) sifted confectioners’ sugar

1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1.5 to 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1-First, pulse the oats about 10-12 times in a food processor until they’re partially chopped and a bit of flour forms. This step is key for that compact texture we love.

2-Next, whisk the pulsed oats together with the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl; set it aside for now.

3-In another bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy, which takes about 2 minutes. Then add the eggs, molasses, and vanilla, beating until fully combined, around 1 minute.

4-Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ones on low speed until everything comes together into a thick, sticky dough. Cover and chill it for at least 45 minutes up to 4 days if you plan ahead, just bring it to room temperature for 30 minutes if it’s been longer.

5-Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

6-Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie, spacing them 3 inches apart on the sheets. Bake for 11-12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and the centers are still soft. Let them cool for 5 minutes on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

7-For the icing, whisk the sifted confectioners’ sugar with the vanilla and 1 tablespoon of milk. Add up to another tablespoon of milk to get a thick, creamy consistency, then lightly dip the tops of the cooled cookies in the icing without submerging them. Let it set for several hours before stacking.

Notes

✨ Pulsing oats is key to achieving the cookie’s unique texture.
🍪 Chilling dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
🎨 Use thick icing for the signature crackled look on the glaze.

Prep Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack, Cookies
Method: Baking, Icing
Cuisine: American

Keywords: iced oatmeal cookies,vanilla glaze,oatmeal cookies,homemade cookies