Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest. The lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy aroma to the base.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Oats, Cranberries, and Walnuts

1. Fold in the oats, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. Add the dried cranberries and chopped walnuts, gently mixing until they are evenly incorporated. These ingredients add texture and bursts of flavor to each bite.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and enhances their flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a chewy texture.
4. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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