Chocolate Chip Cookies with Oats and Almonds

Chocolate chip cookies are a timeless treat, loved by adults and children alike. When you add oats and almonds into the mix, you introduce extra texture, nutty richness, and a satisfying crunch. Follow this straightforward recipe to create chewy, flavourful cookies that are perfect as a snack or a sweet ending to any meal.

Ingredients

• 125g unsalted butter, softened
• 100g brown sugar
• 50g granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 150g plain flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 75g rolled oats
• 100g chocolate chips (milk or dark, depending on preference)
• 50g sliced almonds (plus extra for topping, if desired)

Optional Add-Ins

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm, spiced note
• 50g dried cranberries or raisins for extra sweetness
• Handful of chopped hazelnuts for a nutty boost

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed for best results.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually stir this dry mixture into the butter-sugar blend, being careful not to overmix. Overworking the dough can lead to tougher cookies.

3. Add Oats, Chocolate, and Almonds

1. Fold in the rolled oats, chocolate chips, and sliced almonds. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough for uniform cookies.
2. If you’re using optional ingredients like cinnamon, dried cranberries, or chopped hazelnuts, incorporate them now.

4. Chill the Dough (Optional)

1. If time allows, cover the dough with cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the flavours.

5. Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.

6. Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
2. Place them on the lined baking tray, spacing them about 5cm apart. They will spread slightly during baking.
3. For a decorative finish, press a few extra sliced almonds or chocolate chips on top of each dough ball.

7. Bake to Perfection

1. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centres are just set.
2. If you prefer slightly crisper cookies, add an extra minute or two in the oven.

8. Cool and Enjoy

1. Remove the baking tray from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 2-3 minutes.
2. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Oat and Almond Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Soften the butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to allow for easy creaming.
• Use quality chocolate: The flavour of your chocolate chips will directly affect the taste of the cookies, so opt for a good brand.
• Almond variety: You can use flaked almonds, slivered almonds, or even chopped whole almonds depending on the texture you prefer.
• Check for doneness: Cookies often firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking. Look for lightly browned edges with slightly soft centres.
• Chill the dough: This step is optional but can significantly improve the cookie’s shape and texture.

These Chocolate Chip Cookies with Oats and Almonds strike a lovely balance between chewy and crunchy, making them the perfect treat for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Enjoy them with a cup of tea, a glass of cold milk, or simply on their own whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up.