Old fashioned iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that combines a crispy exterior with a chewy center. This Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is perfect for various occasions, from after-school snacks to dessert at parties. The creamy vanilla icing adds an irresistible touch that will leave everyone wanting more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg gives these cookies a warm, inviting flavor.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or dessert!
- Family-Friendly: These cookies are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them great for gatherings.
- Perfect for Icing: The soft surface of each cookie is ideal for dipping in a creamy glaze.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to create your iced oatmeal cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Cookie scoop
- Baking sheets
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly, ensuring your dough has the right texture.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming the shortening and sugars together.
- Cookie scoop: Helps portion out uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
- Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool properly, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients
To make these delicious iced oatmeal cookies, gather the following 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 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
- 3/4 tsp. cinnamon
- 2 cups oats (quick cooking or old fashioned)
- 4 T milk
- 2 C. powdered sugar (sifted)
- water (as needed)
How to Make Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Shortening and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Water and Vanilla
Beat in water and vanilla until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture and mix well.
Step 4: Fold in Oats
Gently fold in oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 5: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets
Drop dough onto greased baking sheets using a medium cookie scoop.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cookies to stand for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make the Icing Glaze
While the cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze by stirring together milk and powdered sugar. Add water gradually, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Dip Cookies in Glaze
Quickly dip the top of each cookie into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off before placing it back on the wire rack.
Enjoy your homemade iced oatmeal cookies with family and friends!
How to Serve Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Iced oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for an afternoon snack or a special occasion, these cookies can pair beautifully with many accompaniments.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s flavor and texture. The creaminess of milk complements the sweetness of the icing.
At a School Party
- Perfect for sharing, these cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike. Their fun appearance makes them an appealing addition to any dessert table.
As a Lunchbox Treat
- These cookies are easy to pack and provide a sweet surprise in school lunches. They offer a delicious energy boost during the day.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair iced oatmeal cookies with slices of fresh fruit like apples or strawberries for a refreshing contrast. This combination adds both flavor and nutrition.
Served Warm
- Enjoy these cookies slightly warmed for an extra chewy texture. This makes the icing slightly gooey and even more tempting.
How to Perfect Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
To achieve the best results with your iced oatmeal cookies, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow shortening and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth dough that bakes evenly.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies. Gentle handling ensures they stay soft and chewy.
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before baking can enhance flavors and improve texture, leading to better-shaped cookies.
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Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. For chewier cookies, take them out when they are lightly golden; for crunchier ones, let them bake a minute longer.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding more cinnamon or even trying ginger can elevate your cookie flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Iced oatmeal cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the iced oatmeal cookies. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that pairs well with the cookie’s flavors. -
Nut Butter Spread
Serve almond or peanut butter on the side for dipping, adding protein and creaminess alongside your sweet treats. -
Cheese Cubes
A selection of mild cheese cubes can provide a savory contrast that pairs nicely with sweet cookies. -
Chocolate Milkshake
A rich chocolate milkshake complements the vanilla icing, creating a decadent dessert experience. -
Herbal Tea
A warm cup of herbal tea offers soothing notes that balance the sweetness of iced oatmeal cookies perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making iced oatmeal cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Skipping the Creaming Step: Not creaming the shortening and sugars properly can lead to dense cookies. Make sure to beat until light and fluffy for the best texture.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can toughen the cookies. Mix just until combined to maintain a tender bite.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect amounts can affect flavor and texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Overbaking will make cookies dry. Keep an eye on them, as they should be golden brown but still soft.
- Forgetting to Cool on a Rack: Leaving cookies on the baking sheet can cause them to steam and become soggy. Transfer them to a wire rack for proper cooling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store iced oatmeal cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for just a few minutes, keeping an eye on them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the iced oatmeal cookies recipe:
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats in this Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe?
Yes, you can use old-fashioned oats. They will provide a chewier texture compared to quick oats.
What can I substitute for shortening in this recipe?
You can use unsalted butter or coconut oil as alternatives for shortening while maintaining similar flavors.
How do I store leftover iced oatmeal cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer freshness.
Can I customize my Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe with add-ins?
Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture.
How do I know when my iced oatmeal cookies are done?
Cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center when done baking.
Final Thoughts
This iced oatmeal cookies recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual snacks. With its delightful balance of chewy oats and sweet icing, it’s hard not to love these treats! Feel free to customize your batch with various mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Indulge in the delightful world of our Iced Oatmeal Cookies Recipe, where the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers meets a luscious vanilla glaze. This easy recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether as an after-school snack or a delightful dessert at gatherings. With warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enhancing the flavor, these cookies will be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them an accessible treat for bakers of all skill levels.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- 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
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugars together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in water and vanilla until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon before gradually adding to the creamed mixture.
- Fold in the oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded dough onto greased baking sheets using a cookie scoop.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown; allow cooling on a wire rack.
- For icing, mix milk with powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.
- Dip each cookie into the glaze and let excess drip off before placing it back on the wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg




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