Name: Iced Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup shortening; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 cups oats (quick cooking or old-fashioned); 4 tablespoons milk (for icing); 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a treat that perfectly balances chewy and crispy, then this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is just what you need! These delightful cookies are a nostalgic favorite, bringing back memories of after-school snacks enjoyed with a tall glass of cold milk. They’re not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings where sweet treats are a must.

What makes this recipe even more special is the creamy vanilla icing that coats each cookie, transforming them into irresistible bites of joy. Whether it’s an after-school pick-me-up or a dessert to share at your next gathering, these iced oatmeal cookies will surely become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these cookies come together in no time!
Family-friendly fun: Kids adore these sweet treats, making them perfect for after-school snacks or lunchboxes.
Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch and store them for up to a week—if they last that long!
Deliciously satisfying: The combination of oats and spices creates a warm and comforting flavor that everyone loves.
Customizable options: From adding chocolate chips to experimenting with spices, the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these iced oatmeal cookies is simple thanks to wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand. Let’s gather everything you need to make this delightful treat!

For the Cookies

3/4 cup shortening
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
2 cups oats (quick cooking or old fashioned)

For the Icing

4 tablespoons milk
2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Water (as needed)

Variations

This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is quite versatile! Feel free to tweak it according to your preferences or dietary needs.

Add some chocolate: Stir in half a cup of chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor twist.
Nutty addition: Fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Vegan option: Substitute shortening with coconut oil and use plant-based milk for the icing.

How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Shortening and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and both sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that perfect light texture.

Step 2: Mix in Water and Vanilla

Next, beat in the water and vanilla extract until well combined. The vanilla adds warmth and depth of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Gradually add this dry mixture to your creamed mixture. Mixing well ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 4: Fold in Oats

Gently fold in the oats until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is what gives our cookies their hearty texture—a real treat for oatmeal lovers.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop, drop dough onto greased baking sheets. Bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Letting them stand for two minutes before transferring them to wire racks allows them to firm up nicely without breaking apart.

Step 6: Prepare the Icing

While your cookies cool down, stir together milk and powdered sugar until smooth. Add water little by little until you reach your desired consistency—this glaze should be thick enough to coat but thin enough to dip easily!

Step 7: Ice Your Cookies

Quickly dip the tops of each cookie into the glaze before allowing excess icing to drip off. This final touch transforms your cookies from lovely to absolutely irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

To ensure your iced oatmeal cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips!

Use room temperature shortening: This allows for better incorporation with the sugars, leading to a fluffier cookie texture.
Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies; just combine until the ingredients are blended for a soft, chewy texture.
Adjust the glaze consistency: Experiment with the amount of water added to the glaze to find your perfect dipping consistency, ensuring a smooth finish on your cookies.
Let cookies cool completely: Allowing them to cool prevents the glaze from melting and ensures it sets nicely on top.
Store properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and chewiness.

How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

These delicious iced oatmeal cookies not only taste amazing but also look delightful when served. Here are some creative ways to present them!

Garnishes

Sprinkles: A sprinkle of colorful nonpareils or sprinkles on top of the glaze adds a fun touch that’s perfect for kids’ parties or casual get-togethers.
Chopped nuts: Lightly crushed walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled over the glaze for added crunch and flavor.

Side Dishes

Milk: A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookies and makes for a nostalgic snack.
Fresh fruit: Serve alongside fresh slices of apples or strawberries for a refreshing contrast that balances out the richness of the cookies.
Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt can provide a tangy element that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of iced oatmeal cookies.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the comforting experience of enjoying these cookies, making it a perfect afternoon treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious cookies throughout the week without any hassle.

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
If you prefer, place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Allow the baked cookies to cool completely before freezing.
Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat frozen cookies, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Alternatively, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats in this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?

Yes, quick oats can be used as a substitute for old-fashioned oats. They will yield a slightly different texture but will still make delicious cookies.

How long do these iced oatmeal cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your iced oatmeal cookies will remain fresh for about 5 days at room temperature.

Can I make the icing ahead of time for my Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! You can prepare the icing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it on your cookies.

What’s the best way to soften butter for this recipe?

If you want softer dough, you can leave your shortening out at room temperature for about an hour before mixing. This will help create a fluffier texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe as much as I do! These treats bring back wonderful memories and are sure to become favorites for your family too. Don’t hesitate to share them with friends or keep them all to yourself—either way, you’re in for a sweet treat!