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As summer fades and the hustle and bustle of the back-to-school season begins, many families find themselves navigating a mix of excitement and anxiety. For children, the transition from lazy summer days to structured school routines can be overwhelming. Parents, too, experience their share of stress as they prepare for new schedules, supply lists, and the emotional needs of their kids. Amidst this whirlwind of activities, the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies can create a sense of nostalgia and warmth, helping to ease the transition into a new academic year.

Cozy Back To School Cookies

Welcome the new school year with the warmth of homemade Cozy Back to School Cookies! This delightful recipe is perfect for families feeling the mix of excitement and nerves as summer fades. Baking these cookies together not only fills your home with comforting aromas but also creates lasting memories. With ingredients that offer rich flavors and a touch of nostalgia, these treats make a perfect snack for after-school or sharing with friends. Embrace the joy of baking and celebrate togetherness with your loved ones!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup brown sugar, tightly packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup old-fashioned oats

1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)

1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookies.

    Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the ingredients together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined—approximately 3-5 minutes.

      Add Eggs and Vanilla: Next, add the eggs to the bowl one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are thoroughly incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

        Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg (if using) until well combined. This step ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture. Stir gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cookies tender.

            Fold in Extras: Carefully fold in the old-fashioned oats, chocolate chips, walnuts (if you decided to include them), and raisins or dried cranberries. Make sure these delightful additions are evenly distributed in the dough for balanced flavor in each bite.

              Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

                Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should turn lightly golden, but the centers may still appear soft. Don’t worry, they will firm up as they cool!

                  Cool Down: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

                    Enjoy: Once your cookies are fully cooled, indulge in these cozy treats! They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk and make for a delightful addition to any back-to-school snack.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Makes approximately 24 delicious cookies.

                        Presentation Tips: For an added touch, consider serving the cookies on a colorful platter or stacking them in a glass jar tied with a ribbon as a charming gift for friends or family.