Oatmeal scotchies are a delightful treat sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Combining the comforting wholesomeness of oats with the rich, buttery goodness of butterscotch, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that won’t last long in any cookie jar. Whether you’re looking for a beloved recipe to share with family or a delightful treat to serve at a gathering, these cookies deliver flavor and nostalgia in every bite.

Growing up, my grandmother’s house was synonymous with the sweet, fragrant aroma of cookies baking in the oven. Her oatmeal scotchies were a family favorite, and it was a treat we eagerly anticipated whenever we visited. As a child, I loved helping her in the kitchen, sneaking butterscotch chips when she wasn’t looking. Those moments in her cozy kitchen are cherished memories, filled with warmth, love, and the delicious taste of freshly baked cookies. Passing down this recipe feels like continuing a family tradition that I hope my children will cherish as much as I do.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for oatmeal scotchies is a must-try for several reasons. First, it combines quick and easy prep with a rich, satisfying taste that seems far more complex than it actually is. The oats bring a chewy, hearty texture that perfectly complements the sweet, creamy burst of butterscotch in every bite. These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, making them suitable for a casual weekend baking session or a more formal occasion. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients, making them a slightly healthier alternative to traditional cookies.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, you’ll need rolled oats, all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and of course, butterscotch chips. I recommend using high-quality oats for a better texture and avoiding quick oats, as they can become mushy. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider using coconut sugar instead of regular sugar for a subtle caramel flavor. For those who prefer a gluten-free option, opt for a gluten-free flour blend that does well in baking.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2

Cream together the butter and sugars in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, for better incorporation, and stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 4

Fold in the oats and butterscotch chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough, ensuring every cookie contains some of that delicious butterscotch goodness.

Step 5

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Options

Store your leftover oatmeal scotchies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm.

Variations & Substitutions

For a twist on the classic oatmeal scotchies, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. If you have a dietary restriction, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed egg for a vegan version. For a flavor variation, swap out the butterscotch chips for chocolate or White Chocolate chips to create entirely new cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Oatmeal scotchies are perfect for any occasion. Serve them warm from the oven with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for an indulgent dessert, or pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. They’re also great for packing in lunchboxes or sharing at potlucks and holiday gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Absolutely! All you need to do is substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure the oats you use are also labeled gluten-free to ensure there’s no cross-contamination during processing. The texture and flavor should remain just as delightful.

What’s the best way to measure oats for this recipe? It’s best to measure oats using the spoon and level method: spoon the oats into your measuring cup and then level off the top with a straight edge, like a knife. This avoids packing the oats too tightly and ensures your cookies remain chewy rather than dense and heavy.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking? Chilling the dough isn’t necessary for this recipe, as the cookies should spread just enough to achieve the perfect texture. However, if you find your dough to be too sticky or if your kitchen is particularly warm, a short chill in the fridge can make handling the dough easier.