- [Chinese Five Spice Oatmeal Raisin Cookies Ingredients]
- All-purpose flour
- Rolled oats (ensure they are old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Cinnamon
- Chinese five spice powder
- Baking powder
- Egg, beaten
- Butter, softened
- Vanilla extract
- Raisins (golden or dark)
Keywords:
- Chinese five spice
- Oatmeal raisin cookies recipe
- Chinese spices in baking
- Five spice powder
- Traditional Chinese flavors
- Classic cookie ingredients
Steps
### Chinese Five Spice Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: A Delicious and Unique Twist on Classic Treats
#### Introduction to Chinese Five Spice Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Chinese five spice is a blend of spices that includes star anise, fennel seed, cloves, cinnamon, and Szechuan pepper. This unique combination of flavors brings a delightful complexity to these oatmeal raisin cookies, making them a perfect treat for those who enjoy both classic American baking and the subtle flavors of Asian cuisine.
#### Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five spice powder (available in most grocery stores)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup golden raisins or dried cranberries
#### Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
**Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
**Prepare the dry ingredients**: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, salt, and Chinese five spice powder. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
**Cream the butter and sugars**: Using an electric mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and white sugar on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract; mix well to combine.
**Combine wet and dry ingredients**: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with small amounts of water if needed (a few tablespoons should be sufficient). Mix just until the dough comes together but avoid overmixing as it can make the cookies tough. Fold in the oats and raisins or dried cranberries.
**Shape and bake the cookies**: Use a spoon to drop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press down on each cookie with your thumb or the back of a fork for a slightly flattened shape. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers have set.
**Cool before serving**: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
#### Tips for Best Results
- **Freshness of spices**: Ensure that your Chinese five spice powder is fresh. Store it in an airtight container away from light and heat.
- **Variety in raisins**: Experiment with different types or combinations of dried fruits, such as apricots or cherries, to add more texture and flavor.
#### Conclusion
Chinese Five Spice Oatmeal Raisin Cookies offer a delightful blend of traditional American baking with the exotic flavors of Chinese five spice. They make an excellent addition to any holiday spread, or simply enjoy them as a sweet treat for your family and friends. Happy baking!
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**Keywords**: Chinese five spice cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies, five spice recipe, cookie making, Asian flavor in cookies