Name: Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
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; 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 Tablespoon (15ml) unsulphured or dark molasses (do not use blackstrap; recommended Grandma’s brand); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) sifted confectioners’ sugar; 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1.5–2 Tablespoons milk

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

If you are searching for a truly delightful treat that brings together nostalgic charm and a burst of flavor, the Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is absolutely the answer. These cookies boast soft, chewy centers wrapped in crispy edges, with the warm embrace of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a luscious vanilla icing gently draped on top. Pulsing the oats creates a perfect, uniform texture that makes each bite pure bliss. Whether for a cozy afternoon or a festive gathering, these iced oatmeal cookies never fail to brighten the moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up view inside a clear glass blender filled with a thick, light brown mixture that looks creamy and textured. The mixture nearly fills the blender, with some uneven scoops and swirls visible on the top layer. The blender sits on a white marbled surface, and the lighting highlights the smooth, dense texture of the blended contents. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe features straightforward, wholesome ingredients that all play a vital role in creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each item is chosen to build rich taste and comforting aromas that make these cookies simply irresistible.

Old-fashioned whole rolled oats (2 cups / 170g): Pulsed for a mix of chopped oat pieces and oat flour, adding wonderful chewiness and depth.
All-purpose flour (2 cups / 250g): Provides the sturdy structure and classic cookie crumb when spooned and leveled correctly.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough, contributing to a delightful soft center.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet and spicy notes, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Ground cinnamon (1 and 1/2 teaspoons): Brings that cozy, warm spiced essence traditional to oatmeal cookies.
Ground nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle nutty layer that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g): Softened to room temperature for creamy, rich flavor and tender texture throughout.
Light or dark brown sugar (1 cup / 200g): Contributes moisture, caramel notes, and chewiness in every bite.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Balances the sweetness and helps create the crisp edges these cookies are known for.
Large eggs (2): Room temperature eggs bind the dough and add tenderness.
Unsulphured or dark molasses (1 tablespoon): Imparts a rich depth and slight tang that elevates this classic cookie.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses every morsel with fragrant warmth and sweetness.
Confectioners’ sugar (1 and 1/2 cups / 180g): For silky smooth vanilla icing topping each cookie perfectly.
Milk (1.5 to 2 tablespoons): Added gradually to achieve the perfect thick yet spreadable icing consistency.

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Pulse the Oats

Start by placing the oats in a food processor and pulse them about 10-12 times. You want a lovely mixture of chopped oat pieces along with some oat flour to give your cookies that beautiful texture—neither too coarse nor completely powdered. This little trick transforms these cookies into a uniform, compact delight without losing that characteristic oat chew.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Next, whisk together the pulsed oats, flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl. This blend of spices alongside the leavening and salt sets the stage for your cookies’ delicious flavor and perfect rise.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture turns light and fluffy, about two minutes. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, creating cookies that are tender yet hold their shape nicely.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Molasses, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract at high speed until everything is well combined and smooth. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl to make sure no ingredient hides away, ensuring an even and luscious dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. The dough will be thick and sticky. Cover it and chill in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes; this resting period enhances flavors and guarantees cookies that hold together beautifully when baked.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough for each cookie, spacing them roughly three inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 11 to 12 minutes, watching for lightly browned edges while the centers remain soft. The aroma during baking will make waiting worthwhile!

Step 7: Cool and Ice

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. While the cookies cool, whisk together sifted confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and a little milk to make a thick vanilla icing. Lightly dip or spread this icing on top of the cookies and let it set for a couple of hours for that classic finish you’ll adore.

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

The image shows two round oatmeal cookies stacked on a white marbled surface. The bottom cookie is fully visible with a golden-brown texture and rough, crumbly edges. The top cookie is placed diagonally on the bottom one and has a similar texture. Both cookies are covered with thin, white icing that spreads unevenly across the top, creating a light glistening effect with some small cracks and bubbles. The overall look is rustic and homemade. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These iced oatmeal cookies look amazing as they are, but sprinkling a tiny pinch of cinnamon or cinnamon sugar on the icing before it sets adds a lovely extra touch. Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be pressed gently onto the icing for added crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair these cozy cookies with a steaming cup of chai tea, hot coffee, or cold milk. The spicy warmth matches perfectly with creamy beverages, making every bite and sip a comforting experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange iced oatmeal cookies on a rustic wooden platter alongside fresh fruit or dried cranberries for a charming display at gatherings. You can also stack them inside clear jars tied with ribbons for delightful homemade gifts that friends and family will cherish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking and icing, store your iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them soft and flavorful. For longer freshness, placing them in the refrigerator extends their life up to ten days without sacrificing taste.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully. After cooling and icing, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to two months, making it easy to enjoy your favorite treat anytime.

Reheating

To warm frozen or chilled iced oatmeal cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature. If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent icing from melting excessively.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

While old-fashioned rolled oats give the ideal texture after pulsing, quick oats might result in a softer, less textural cookie. If you substitute, pulse less to avoid turning all oats into flour for a better balance.

Why is the dough chilled before baking?

Chilling helps the dough firm up, preventing cookies from spreading too much during baking, which preserves their chewy texture and shape. It also helps flavors meld together more deeply.

What is the purpose of molasses in this recipe?

Molasses adds rich depth and a subtle hint of sweetness with a slight tang, enhancing the cookie’s warm, spiced notes while also contributing moisture for a tender crumb.

How thick should the icing be when applying it?

The icing should be very thick but spreadable—almost like a glaze that clings firmly to the cookie tops. Adding too much milk will thin it out, causing it to slide off instead of setting nicely.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking, you can maintain texture and flavor. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about baking and sharing this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe. From the warm spices to the soft centers and crisp edges, topped with that perfect vanilla icing, these cookies feel like a hug in dessert form. Give them a try—you’ll soon understand why they are a cherished classic that brings happiness to every occasion.