Raisin Cookies with Vegetable Oil: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Raisin cookies are one of the most popular types of cookies among Iranians, with a soft and sweet taste that brings back fond childhood memories. This simple homemade cookie is made with readily available ingredients and is perfect for snacks or entertaining guests. Using vegetable oil instead of butter in this recipe gives the cookies a softer texture and makes them quicker and more economical to prepare.

This article provides a complete guide to making raisin cookies with vegetable oil, including ingredient tables and nutritional values, so you can easily make a healthy and delicious cookie at home.

Ingredients for Raisin Cookies

To make raisin cookies with vegetable oil, you will need the following ingredients. These quantities are for about 20 standard cookies.

These ingredients are simple and healthy, making them a great option for quick and homemade raisin cookies.

Preparation Steps

Preparing the ingredients for raisin cookies with vegetable oil is a key step that greatly affects the final quality of the cookies. First, wash the raisins in lukewarm water and dry them to ensure they are clean and free of excess moisture. Then, mix the eggs with sugar and vanilla in a large bowl until you get a soft and creamy texture. Mix and sift the flour and baking powder separately to prevent lumps in the dough. Preparing these ingredients separately makes the final mixing easier and results in a more uniform dough.

Preparing the Raisins

Raisins are a key ingredient in this cookie, determining its taste and texture. First, wash the raisins in a bowl of lukewarm water to remove any dust. Then spread them on a clean towel and let them dry. This step is crucial to prevent the dough from becoming too moist.

You can also mix the raisins with a little flour to help distribute them evenly in the dough. This simple trick prevents the raisins from settling at the bottom of the cookies.

Preparing the Eggs and Sugar

In this step, break the eggs into a large bowl and mix them with sugar using an electric or hand mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture turns a light creamy color and has a soft, smooth texture. This step is crucial as it gives the cookies a soft texture.

Adding vanilla to the egg and sugar mixture gives the cookies a pleasant aroma and eliminates the eggy smell.

Making the Cookie Dough

To make the raisin cookie dough, first pour the prepared egg, sugar, and vegetable oil mixture into a large bowl. Gradually add the flour and baking powder mixture to it. Do this slowly with a spatula or spoon until the dough is smooth and sticky. At this stage, add the prepared raisins to the dough and gently mix with circular motions to distribute the raisins evenly. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but not too loose or too stiff. The dough is now ready for shaping and baking. Below, we will explain the complete steps for making raisin cookie dough.

Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the egg, sugar, and vegetable oil mixture. At this stage, mix the ingredients gently with a spatula until the dough becomes smooth and sticky.

Add the raisins to the dough at the end and gently stir to distribute the raisins evenly.

Preparing for Baking

After the dough is ready, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and use a spoon to place the dough on the sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie. Each spoonful of dough should be about the size of a walnut to ensure the cookies have a good shape and size after baking.

Baking the Raisin Cookies

Preheating the Oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is essential for even baking of the cookies. Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, place the baking sheet inside.

Baking and Cooling

Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are golden. After removing from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then gently remove them from the parchment paper and place them on a cooling rack.

Key Tips for Best Results

Choosing good Quality Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients greatly affects the taste and texture of the final cookies. Use fresh, clean raisins and ensure the baking powder is fresh.

Adjusting Baking Temperature and Time

The baking time and temperature must be precise. Too much or too little heat can change the texture of the cookies or cause them to burn. Using an oven thermometer helps you maintain the exact temperature.

Nutritional Value of Raisin Cookies

These values are based on standard ingredients and may vary depending on changes in the ingredients.

Benefits of Using Vegetable Oil

Moisture Retention

Vegetable oil helps retain moisture in the cookie's texture, preventing it from drying out. This feature keeps the cookies fresh and soft even after a few days.

Healthier Alternative to Butter

Using vegetable oil instead of butter is a healthier option for those looking to reduce saturated fat intake. This change can also result in fewer calories.

Serving and Storing Raisin Cookies

Serving Method

You can serve raisin cookies with tea or coffee as a snack. These cookies are also an excellent option for entertaining guests at parties and family gatherings.

Long-term Storage

To store the cookies, place them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will keep the cookies fresh for up to a week.

Conclusion

Raisin cookies with vegetable oil are a simple and delicious recipe made with readily available ingredients and minimal time. These cookies have a soft texture, a pleasant taste, and good nutritional value. By following the mentioned tips, you can make perfect and healthy cookies at home and enjoy them.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can solid oil be used instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, but vegetable oil gives the cookies a softer and healthier texture.

• Can whole wheat flour be used instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but the texture of the cookies may be slightly firmer.

• Can raisins be replaced with other ingredients?

Yes, you can use chocolate chips or chopped nuts instead.

• How can cookies be made without an oven?

You can use a pan with very low heat and a lid, but the result may vary.

• Are these cookies suitable for diabetics?

You can use sugar-free sweeteners, but it is recommended to consult a doctor.