Autumn Delight Oatmeal Cookies

Have you ever tried several different recipes and then combine what you like from each to create your own recipe? That is what I did with these cookies! I can't remember when exactly I created this recipe but I think it was the early 2000's when I was in my late teens or early 20's.

I most often make these cookies in the Fall, simply because the ingredients are items that make with think of the Autumn season: Cranberries, oatmeal and pumpkin spice! I just decided this week that I should share this recipe to my blog and give these cookies a name - so, Autumn Delight Oatmeal Cookies it is!

I told my husband on Sunday that I was planning on making these cookies this week. His response was, "What's holding you back from making them tonight?"

I thought about it and the answer was, well, nothing. We had all of the ingredients and he was playing with our son and we didn't have any other plans that evening. 3 1/2 dozen cookies lasted until Wednesday. Dominic has also decided that he really likes cookies. With oatmeal and cranberries, they can be breakfast, right? 😉

Speaking of which, I also like my oatmeal with cranberries, chocolate chips and pumpkin spice, along with cold milk. I don't know what it is but I love the combination of hot oatmeal and cold milk.

Here is the recipe (scroll down for a pretty version that you can save and print out):
You can also find this Recipe on Pinterest

Ingredients:

1 cup softened butter
1/2 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
3 cups rolled oats
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (150 degrees C)

2. Cream together butter and sugars, then add egg and vanilla. Mix well.

Does anyone else usually only remember to take butter out of the fridge to soften right when you are about to start baking?

3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt and spices. Add to egg mixture. Mix well.

I would recommend using unsalted butter but if you only have salted butter, go ahead and use it but you may want to skip the extra pinch of salt.

4. Stir in oatmeal, cranberries and chocolate chips.

I usually use regular milk chocolate chips but sometimes experiment with other kinds such as dark chocolate chips or chocolate chunks.

5. Drop tablespoon-fulls of cookie dough onto ungreased cookie sheets and flatten slightly with the palm of your hand. Bake in pre-heated oven for 10-12 mins or until light brown. Makes 3-4 dozen cookies.

The cookie dough is also delicious but I didn't eat any this time because I am pregnant.

6. Cool on a wire rack and enjoy some yummy cookies.