The smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house always brings a smile to my face, and these chewy gluten-free oatmeal scotchies are no exception! With their delightful caramel aroma and the perfect hint of flaky sea salt, each bite is a warm hug for your taste buds. This easy recipe swaps traditional flour for gluten-free options, making it an ideal treat for everyone, including those with gluten sensitivities. Not only are these cookies quick to whip up, but they also offer a satisfyingly chewy texture that will impress family and friends alike. So, are you ready to bring the joy of homemade cookies back into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Irresistible Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a soft, gooey center alongside a slightly crispy edge, making them incredibly satisfying.
Sweet and Salty Bliss: A beautiful blend of butterscotch chips with the optional flaky sea salt elevates flavor and creates a memorable taste experience.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Using gluten-free measure-for-measure flour ensures everyone can enjoy these treats without compromise.
Quick and Easy: This simple recipe means you can whip up a batch in no time to satisfy those cookie cravings.
Customizable Delight: With endless variations, like swapping in dark chocolate chips or adding nuts, these cookies can easily become your signature treat! Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or check out more tasty options in our cookie recipes.
Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies Ingredients
For the Dough
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for an even mixture.
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps achieve a chewy texture; pack it lightly to avoid excess.
- Granulated Sugar – Enhances overall sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ delightful texture.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for structure; use room temperature eggs for the best mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – Introduces aromatic flavor; opt for pure vanilla for superior taste.
- Gluten-Free Measure-for-Measure Flour – Offers structure without gluten; choose a trusted brand, like King Arthur.
- Gluten-Free Rolled Oats – Adds texture and heartiness; ensure they are certified gluten-free.
- Cornstarch – Improves softness and prevents grittiness in the cookies.
- Baking Soda – A leavening agent for perfect rise and lightness.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and depth of flavor for a cozy touch.
- Butterscotch Chips – Imbues a rich, sweet flavor; consider mixing with dark chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness.
- Flaky Sea Salt (optional) – Sprinkled on top to elevate flavors without overwhelming sweetness.
Enjoy crafting these delicious gluten-free oatmeal scotchies that will leave everyone asking for more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by creaming 1 cup of softened butter with 3/4 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add 2 large room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well between each addition, then stir in 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of gluten-free measure-for-measure flour, 2 cups of gluten-free rolled oats, 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and optional 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky, ready to hold the delicious flavors of the cookies.
Step 3: Add Butterscotch Chips
Gently fold in 1 to 1 1/2 cups of butterscotch chips into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. You can also mix in half dark chocolate chips if you desire a balanced sweetness. Make sure each bite of these chewy gluten-free oatmeal scotchies has that rich, caramel flavor that will make them irresistible to everyone in your family.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling the dough is crucial, as it enhances the flavor and improves the texture of the cookies once baked. This step also helps control the spread during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Once the oven is ready, scoop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underdone. For an extra touch, sprinkle with flaky sea salt right after they come out of the oven.
Step 6: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time will allow the centers to set and the cookies to achieve that delightful chewy texture. Enjoy the aroma of these chewy gluten-free oatmeal scotchies wafting through your kitchen as you wait!
How to Store and Freeze Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. This will keep them fresh and chewy!
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze gluten-free oatmeal scotchies for up to 8 weeks. Place individually wrapped cookies in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container to maintain quality.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their chewy texture and delightful flavor.
Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own by trying some delicious twists!
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Chocolate Twist: Substitute half of the butterscotch chips with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for an extra crunch and a nutty essence in every bite.
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Quick Oats: Swap gluten-free rolled oats for quick oats for a different texture that’s equally enjoyable.
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Spiced Up: Enhance the flavor by adding 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, inviting aroma.
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Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a delicious dairy-free version of these scrumptious cookies.
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Elevated Saltiness: For a gourmet touch, try sprinkling a course sea salt on top before baking, amplifying both flavor and presentation.
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Crispy Edges: If you love a crunch, bake the cookies a little longer for a crispier edge while maintaining a soft center.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity contrast that complements the butterscotch beautifully.
With these fabulous variations, you’ll be able to cater to everyone’s tastes while making your homemade gluten-free oatmeal scotchies shine! Don’t forget to check out our other tasty cookie recipes for more delightful treats.
Expert Tips for Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies
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Chill Time Matters: Chilling the dough is crucial for the best texture. It prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring the perfect chewy consistency.
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Measure Correctly: Avoid too much flour by using a kitchen scale or the scoop-and-level method. Overmeasuring flour can result in dry gluten-free cookies.
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Mix Wisely: Be gentle when mixing in the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies, whereas a quick fold keeps them light and airy.
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Flavor Balance: If butterscotch chips are overly sweet for your taste, try using a mix of half butterscotch and half dark chocolate chips to create a delightful flavor balance.
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Baking Soda Check: Ensure your baking soda is fresh by testing it with vinegar; an active fizz indicates it’s good to use for those perfectly risen gluten-free oatmeal scotchies.
What to Serve with Chewy Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies
Indulging in a warm, gooey cookie is just the beginning! Pairing it with complementary dishes can elevate your snack experience even further.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Perfectly rich, it contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of oatmeal scotchies, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
- Fresh Berries: Their natural sweetness adds a refreshing note that balances the richness of the cookies, making each bite a celebration of taste.
- Nutty Trail Mix: Add a bit of crunch with a mix of nuts and dried fruits. This texture contrast brings a playful richness to your cookie experience.
- Espresso or Coffee: The deep, robust flavors of a freshly brewed coffee or espresso enhance the butterscotch notes of the cookies, creating a cozy treat moment.
- Homemade Hot Chocolate: Nothing beats the comfort of warm chocolate paired with a sweet cookie! The creaminess of hot chocolate makes for a heartwarming combination.
- Milk (Dairy or Non-Dairy): A classic partner, milk comfortably complements the sweetness of the cookies while enhancing their chewy delight.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream on the side provides an airy sweetness, elevating the cookie flavor without overwhelming it.
- Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The sweet-and-salty crunch of chocolate-covered pretzels pairs beautifully with oatmeal scotchies, creating a fun, delightful flavor combo.
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Gluten-Free Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it tightly covered in the refrigerator; this not only enhances the flavors but also helps control cookie spread during baking. Additionally, you can scoop the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet for up to 3 months. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container for easy access. When you’re ready to indulge, simply bake from frozen for an extra couple of minutes—this way, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies waiting for you with minimal effort, just as delicious as when freshly made!
Gluten-Free Oatmeal Butterscotch Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of oats should I use for gluten-free oatmeal scotchies?
You should always opt for certified gluten-free rolled oats. This ensures that they haven’t been cross-contaminated with gluten during processing, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious cookies safely. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or Glutenfreeda are good choices!
How should I store my gluten-free oatmeal butterscotch cookies?
Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy! If you want them to last longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, just be sure to seal them well to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze gluten-free oatmeal butterscotch cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let your cookies cool completely. Then, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 8 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my gluten-free cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are dry, it could be due to too much flour being used. I recommend measuring very accurately next time. Also, ensure not to overmix the dough and try chilling for the recommended time, as this can help retain moisture. If they do end up dry, enjoy them with a glass of milk to soften that texture.
Can I substitute the butterscotch chips?
Certainly! If butterscotch chips are too sweet for your preference, you can mix half with dark chocolate chips for balanced sweetness. Alternatively, consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and flavor!
Are there any dietary considerations with these cookies?
These gluten-free oatmeal butterscotch cookies are perfect for those with gluten sensitivities, but be mindful of allergies, especially to eggs or dairy in the recipe. For vegan options, consider using flax eggs and dairy-free butter, but do note that texture might slightly differ. Always read ingredient labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
Chewy Gluten-Free Oatmeal Scotchies That Steal the Show
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- hand mixer
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup butter softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar packed lightly
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract pure
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free measure-for-measure flour trusted brand like King Arthur
- 2 cups gluten-free rolled oats certified gluten-free
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon optional
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups butterscotch chips mix with dark chocolate chips if desired
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt optional, for sprinkling
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well between additions. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, rolled oats, cornstarch, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the butterscotch chips until evenly distributed.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.