Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies

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Rustic Harvest Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies – Chewy, Spiced & Comforting

These hearty oatmeal cookies are packed with chewy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and melty chocolate chips. With warm cinnamon spice and a soft, chewy center, they’re the perfect fall-inspired treat for cozy days and crisp evenings.

Introduction: A Cookie That Tastes Like Fall

There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon, oats, and toasted nuts wafting through the kitchen. These Rustic Harvest Oatmeal Cookies are everything you want in a seasonal bake—chewy, nutty, sweet, and just a little bit indulgent. With a mix of dried cranberries, pecans, and chocolate chips, they strike the perfect balance between wholesome and decadent.

Whether you’re baking for a fall gathering, prepping snacks for the week, or just craving something cozy with your afternoon tea, these cookies are a must-bake.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so special:

Wet Ingredients:

  • Unsalted butter (¼ cup)
    Adds richness and flavor—softened for easy mixing.
  • Neutral oil (6 tbsp)
    Keeps the cookies moist and tender. Canola or melted coconut oil work well.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and depth.
  • Granulated sugar (½ cup)
    Provides sweetness and structure.
  • Brown sugar (¼ cup + 2 tbsp)
    Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
  • Egg (1 large)
    Binds the dough and adds richness.

Dry Ingredients:

  • Old-fashioned oats (2 cups)
    The heart of the cookie—adds chew and texture.
  • Hot water (¼ cup)
    Softens the oats slightly for a tender bite.
  • All-purpose flour (1 cup)
    Provides structure and balance.
  • Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp)
    Infuses the cookies with cozy spice.
  • Baking soda (½ tsp)
    Helps the cookies rise and spread.
  • Salt (½ tsp)
    Enhances all the flavors.

Mix-Ins (⅓ cup each):

  • Dried cranberries – Tart and chewy
  • Chopped pecans – Nutty and crunchy
  • Chocolate chips – Sweet and melty

Tip: Keep total mix-ins to about 1 cup for best texture.

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:

  • Combine ¼ cup softened butter, 6 tbsp oil, and 1 tsp vanilla.

Mash until butter is soft and mixture is smooth.

Add:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup + 2 tbsp brown sugar

Stir until creamy.

Mix in 1 large egg until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Soften the Oats

In a separate bowl:

  • Combine 2 cups oats with ¼ cup hot water.

Let sit for 5 minutes to soften slightly.

Add oats to the wet mixture and stir to combine.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt

Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins

Add:

  • ⅓ cup dried cranberries
  • ⅓ cup chopped pecans
  • ⅓ cup chocolate chips

Fold gently until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Refrigerate dough for at least 10 minutes.

Tip: Chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets.

Bake for 12 minutes, or until:

  • Edges are golden
  • Centers are just set

Let cool fully on the baking sheet before transferring.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Autumn bake sales
  • Afternoon tea
  • Holiday cookie trays
  • Cozy weekend baking

Pair with:

  • A mug of chai or spiced cider
  • Greek yogurt and fruit for a hearty snack
  • A drizzle of maple glaze for extra indulgence

Presentation Tip: Stack cookies in a rustic tin or wrap in parchment and twine for a charming gift.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Apple Cinnamon

Swap cranberries for dried apples and add a pinch of nutmeg.

Coconut Pecan

Replace chocolate chips with shredded coconut.

Double Chocolate

Use cocoa powder in the dough and white chocolate chips.

Vegan Version

Use flax egg and plant-based butter/oil.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Dough can be chilled for up to 48 hours.
  • Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze dough balls or baked cookies for up to 2 months.

Tip: Reheat cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Nutrition Notes (Per Cookie, ~1 of 24)

  • Calories: ~150
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~8g
  • Sugar: ~10g
  • Sodium: ~90mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

These cookies are:

  • Chewy and hearty
  • Spiced and sweet
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Rustic Harvest Oatmeal Cranberry Pecan Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of seasonal flavors, cozy textures, and the joy of homemade baking. Whether you’re enjoying them with loved ones or sneaking one with your morning coffee, they’re guaranteed to warm your heart.

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