Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

These cookies are gluten-free and nut-free, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and made with oats and hemp hearts for a nourishing, delicious treat.

Joy McCarthy • March 9, 2026

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There is something about oatmeal raisin cookies that feels comforting and nostalgic. They remind me of cozy afternoons in the kitchen (usually Sunday afternoon), with simple ingredients coming together to make something delicious with my daughter, Vienna. I love creating versions of classic recipes that are made with whole foods and gut healthy ingredients, and these oatmeal raisin cookies are exactly that.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and nut-free, making it a great option for baking for kids, school snacks, or anyone with allergies. They are lightly sweetened with maple syrup and made with oats, oat flour, and hemp hearts for a boost of fibre and plant-based protein.

The result is a soft, warmly spiced cookie with chewy raisins in every bite. They are perfect with a cup of tea, packed into lunchboxes, or enjoyed as a simple afternoon treat. You’ll support gut health with every bite thanks to the ingredients.

Why you will love these cookies

These oatmeal raisin cookies are made with wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Each one brings something nourishing and delicious to the recipe.

Oats give these cookies their hearty texture and provide fibre that helps keep you satisfied. They also create that classic oatmeal raisin cookie feel that makes this recipe so comforting
Oat flour keeps the cookies naturally gluten-free while adding a soft, tender texture. It blends beautifully with the oats to create a balanced cookie that is not too dense
Hemp hearts add a boost of plant-based protein and healthy fats. They are mild in flavour so they blend right into the cookies while adding extra nourishment.
Cinnamon brings warmth and that classic oatmeal cookie flavour. It pairs perfectly with maple syrup and raisins.
Maple syrup provides natural sweetness and a subtle caramel-like flavour that complements the oats and spices.
Coconut oil adds moisture and richness, helping the cookies stay soft while giving them a light, buttery texture. Look for unrefined coconut oil and preferably organic.
Raisins add natural sweetness and chewy texture to every bite. They also add a little extra fibre and make these cookies feel like a true oatmeal raisin classic.

Tips for the best cookies

If you like a softer cookie, remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden. If you prefer a slightly crispier cookie, let them bake for an extra minute or two.

One of my favourite things about these cookies is how versatile they are. You can easily customize them to suit your family’s tastes or what you have on hand in the pantry. Love a little extra crunch? Toss in some sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Want a hint of spice beyond cinnamon? A pinch of nutmeg or ginger adds warmth and depth.

If you prefer your oatmeal raisin cookies a little sweeter, a handful of dark chocolate chips or chopped dates work beautifully – that’s what I did with the second batch I made. The best part is that the base recipe is so forgiving—you can experiment without worrying about ruining the cookies. This makes them a perfect recipe for busy mornings or afternoons when the kids want to help bake. They’ll enjoy scooping the dough, mixing in the raisins, and of course, sneaking a few bites before they even make it to the oven. Plus, these cookies store well in an airtight container for a few days, or can be frozen for longer, so you can always have a healthy snack on hand without extra effort.

Desserts