Giant Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

Servings: 12 large cookies | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Bake Time: 12-15 minutes

Calories per cookie: Approximately 350-400 calories (depending on portion size)

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Tip:

These Giant Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect combination of chewy oats, rich chocolate, and a hint of vanilla. They make for a fantastic treat to enjoy with a glass of milk or as an indulgent snack anytime. Great for sharing or enjoying on your own!

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Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups chocolate chunks (or chocolate chips)

• 1 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional, for extra texture and flavor)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

1. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:

1. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Fold in the Chocolate Chunks and Optional Add-ins:

1. Gently fold in the chocolate chunks (and raisins or dried cranberries, if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

7. Scoop the Dough:

1. Use a large cookie scoop or two tablespoons to scoop out large portions of dough (about 3 tablespoons per cookie) and place them onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading, about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake the Cookies:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the center is still soft.

2. If you want a chewier cookie, take them out a minute or two earlier, and for a crispier cookie, leave them in for the full time.

9. Cool the Cookies:

1. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Tips for Saving Energy:

• Use a convection oven if available, as it will distribute the heat more efficiently and reduce the overall baking time, saving energy.

• You can freeze cookie dough portions on a baking sheet and then store them in a bag for later use. When ready to bake, just pop them directly into the oven without thawing.

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Who Should Enjoy These Cookies?:

• These cookies are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth who loves the combination of oatmeal and chocolate.

• Great for kids, adults, or anyone looking for a hearty, indulgent treat.

Who Should Avoid Them?:

• People with gluten intolerance or those on a gluten-free diet should use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

• If you're watching your calorie or sugar intake, be mindful of the size of the cookies and adjust the recipe to suit your dietary needs.

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Enjoy these Giant Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies, a warm and chewy treat with gooey chocolate chunks, perfect for any occasion or as a satisfying snack!