These oatmeal cookies are a cherished family recipe from Grandma Helen. They are soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome oats, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or as a snack on their own, these cookies are sure to bring back fond memories!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
 - 1 cup brown sugar, packed
 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
 - 2 large eggs
 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
 - 3 cups rolled oats
 - 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
 - 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
 

Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
 - Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
 - Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
 - Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
 - Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Stir in the rolled oats, and if desired, add raisins or chocolate chips and chopped nuts.
 - Scoop the Dough: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
 - Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
 - Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
 
Enjoy Grandma Helen’s Oatmeal Cookies with family and friends, and savor the warmth and nostalgia they bring!
