Winter Spice Hazelnut Oatmeal

Discovering the Winter Spice Hazelnut Drizzle Oatmeal Raisin cookie was like finding a warm hug on a cold morning. I still remember the first batch I made, the kitchen filled with cozy aromas that instantly felt like home.

I recall the day unexpected guests arrived just as I pulled these cookies from the oven; their smiles confirmed I had nailed something truly special.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: I always make sure to measure it properly to keep the cookies soft and tender.
• Baking soda: Essential for just the right rise helping the cookies stay chewy inside.
• Sea salt: A little sprinkle balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice: These spices bring that cozy winter warmth I reach for every cold season.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: For texture and that hearty chewiness you crave.
• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature—this is key for creamy batter.
• Brown and granulated sugar: The combo gives depth and a slight crunch on the edges.
• Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Pure, to enhance all the flavors.
• Raisins: Plump and juicy for that classic oatmeal raisin touch.
• Chopped toasted hazelnuts: Adds crunch and a toasty note that pairs beautifully with the drizzle.
• Powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, milk: For the silky drizzle that turns good into unforgettable.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so the cookies don't stick and bake evenly.

Mix the Dry Goodies:

Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and oats. The spices swell up releasing that inviting aroma as you mix.

Whip the Wet Ingredients:

Beat the softened butter with brown and granulated sugar until delightfully light and fluffy—the sound of the mixer is a happy kitchen soundtrack.

Combine and Fold:

Add eggs one at a time, stirring in vanilla extract next. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined—overmixing can make the cookies tough.

Add the Magic Mix-Ins:

Fold in raisins and chopped hazelnuts gently to keep the dough airy and inviting.

Shape Your Cookies:

Drop dough by tablespoons or use a cookie scoop onto the sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges turn golden but the centers stay soft—this balance is essential for that chewy bite.

Cooling Time:

Let cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—the texture firms up perfectly here.

Drizzle Finale:

Whisk powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, and milk until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this luscious topping over cooled cookies and allow it to set before enjoying.

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These cookies quickly became more than just a recipe—they are now a go-to comfort during chilly days, reminding me of laughter-filled afternoons and shared warmth.

Keeping the Cookies Fresh

Once cooled and drizzled, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to retain their softness for up to a week. If you want to save them longer, freezing is your friend.

When You’re Missing a Spice

If you don&t have all the spices on hand, cinnamon alone carries the flavor beautifully. You can always add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for an extra warming note if you&re adventurous.

Last-Minute Thoughts Before You Go

This recipe adapts wonderfully, so feel free to swap hazelnuts with walnuts or pecans to suit your stocking pantry.

• Remember, the drizzle makes a huge difference—don&t skip it!
• Watch baking time closely; every oven is a bit different.
• Use room temperature butter for best mixing results.

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Thanks for stopping by my kitchen—hope these cookies bring you as much joy and warmth as they have to me. Happy baking!

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What spices are used to achieve the winter flavor?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice blend together to create the warm, cozy winter profile.

→ Can I substitute hazelnuts with other nuts?

Yes, walnuts or pecans work well as alternatives and complement the spice mix nicely.

→ How is the hazelnut drizzle prepared?

The drizzle combines powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, and milk whisked until smooth, then drizzled over cooled treats.

→ What’s the best way to store these treats to keep freshness?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for up to two months for optimum freshness.

→ Are there options for adding more spice warmth?

Adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves intensifies the spicy warmth without overpowering the flavors.