Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, known for their chewiness, rich flavor, and comforting texture. Mary Berry, the renowned British baker and TV personality, has been a household name for decades, with a reputation for creating foolproof recipes that yield perfect results every time. Her chocolate chip oat cookies blend the best elements of traditional baking with a little extra heartiness, thanks to the oats. The combination of crisp edges and soft centers, along with the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate chunks, makes these cookies irresistible.
The oats not only add texture and a slightly nutty flavor but also give the cookies a comforting, almost wholesome feel. The result is a cookie that balances the sweetness of the chocolate chips with the heartiness of oats, creating a satisfying treat perfect for any occasion-be it a cozy afternoon tea, a packed lunch, or an after-dinner snack. These cookies are perfect for anyone who loves the indulgence of chocolate chip cookies but wants something with a little more substance.
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies are made using a simple set of ingredients that are likely already sitting in your kitchen pantry. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
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Butter – 225g (softened)
The butter is the base of the cookie dough, contributing to the texture and rich flavor. It provides the right amount of moisture and ensures the cookies remain soft and chewy.
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Caster Sugar – 100g
Caster sugar is finer than regular granulated sugar, allowing it to dissolve more easily into the butter. It provides the sweet foundation for the cookies and helps with the delicate crispiness.
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Brown Sugar – 100g (light or dark)
Brown sugar adds a touch of molasses, giving the cookies a deeper, richer flavor. It also helps to create that chewy texture that is characteristic of oatmeal cookies.
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Egg – 1 large
The egg acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together and contributing to the cookie’s structure.
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Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
The vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and adds a fragrant, aromatic flavor to the cookies, complementing the oats and chocolate.
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Self-Raising Flour – 180g
Self-raising flour already contains baking powder, so it helps the cookies rise just enough to create that soft, chewy middle while still holding a slightly crisp edge.
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Oats – 150g (rolled oats work best)
The oats provide both texture and a wholesome, chewy bite. They also add a slight nuttiness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate chips.
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Chocolate Chips – 200g
Of course, chocolate chips are essential for the iconic flavor. You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate chips, depending on your preference. The chips melt into gooey pockets of chocolate throughout the cookies.
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Baking Powder – 1 tsp
Though self-raising flour already contains some raising agent, the additional baking powder gives the cookies that perfect lift, ensuring a light, fluffy texture.
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Pinch of Salt
A small pinch of salt helps balance the sweetness of the sugar and enhances the overall flavor, making sure that no one element dominates the others.
Equipment Needed
To make these delicious chocolate chip oat cookies, you don’t need any special tools, but a few basic kitchen essentials will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is essential to combine all the ingredients. Since this dough is fairly thick, you’ll need a spacious bowl to mix it properly.
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Electric Mixer or Wooden Spoon
While you can mix by hand using a wooden spoon, an electric mixer (preferably with paddle attachments) will make the task much easier and quicker. The softened butter mixes in more evenly when using a mixer.
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Baking Tray
A baking tray or baking sheet is necessary for placing the cookie dough balls to bake. Make sure it’s lined with baking parchment or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
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Spoon or Cookie Scoop
For evenly sized cookies, a cookie scoop is perfect. However, a regular spoon will work just as well if you don’t have one.
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Cooling Rack
Once your cookies are baked, a cooling rack will allow them to cool evenly, ensuring they don’t get soggy at the bottom.
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Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements are key in baking, and measuring cups and spoons are essential for following the recipe precisely.
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Oven
You’ll need a conventional oven for baking these cookies. A fan-assisted oven is ideal for an even bake, but if using a conventional oven, you may need to adjust the temperature slightly.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies
Making Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort for maximum reward. Follow these detailed steps for the best results:
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Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), or 160°C (320°F) if you’re using a fan-assisted oven. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
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Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter, caster sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer or wooden spoon to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating the right texture and ensuring the sugar is well incorporated into the dough.
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Add the Egg and Vanilla Extract
Crack the egg into the bowl and add the vanilla extract. Beat everything together until smooth. The egg helps bind the mixture, while the vanilla gives a lovely aroma.
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Sift in the Dry Ingredients
Sift in the self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and helps with the consistency of the dough. Mix it until just combined.
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Stir in the Oats and Chocolate Chips
Add the oats and chocolate chips into the mixture, and use a spatula or spoon to fold them in evenly. Be gentle when mixing, as overworking the dough can affect the cookie’s texture.
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Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into even balls (about 1 tablespoon per cookie). Space them out on the baking tray, leaving enough room for the cookies to spread slightly while baking.
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Bake
Bake the cookies for around 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
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Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.
Tips And Tricks
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Don’t Overmix the Dough
Mixing the dough too much can result in tough cookies. Once the flour is added, mix until just combined.
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Chill the Dough
If you have time, chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies keep their shape and prevents excessive spreading.
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Use Room Temperature Butter
Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter will not mix as smoothly and may cause your dough to be uneven.
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Customize Your Cookies
Feel free to switch up the type of chocolate chips. Dark chocolate adds a bittersweet balance, while milk chocolate gives a sweeter, creamier taste. You can also add other mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
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Watch the Bake Time
Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the cookies. They should be golden at the edges but still soft in the middle. Overbaking will make them crunchy rather than chewy.
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies are a wonderful, easy-to-make treat that combines the best aspects of a traditional chocolate chip cookie with the wholesome texture of oats. They offer a satisfying bite that is both chewy and slightly crisp around the edges, with the perfect balance of chocolate and oats. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, afternoon tea, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies never disappoint.
The recipe is simple and requires ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it an ideal option for last-minute baking sessions. With a few small tricks, like chilling the dough or adjusting the bake time to suit your oven, you can create a batch of cookies that are sure to impress.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies are already a delicious treat, but there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen. With just a few adjustments or substitutions, you can take these cookies from classic to unique, offering something for every taste preference. Here are some fun and simple variations to try:
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Add A Nutty Twist
- For a crunchier texture and deeper flavor, consider folding in a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds. The earthy richness of nuts pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the chocolate and the hearty oats. You can also toast the nuts lightly before mixing them into the dough to enhance their flavor.
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Dried Fruit For A Fruity Kick
- Swap out some of the chocolate chips for dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots. The tartness of cranberries, in particular, contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the dough and chocolate. You could even mix in a medley of dried fruits to add complexity to the flavor.
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Double The Chocolate
- For those who can’t get enough of chocolate, why not try a double-chocolate variation? You can add cocoa powder to the dough for a richer, deeper chocolate flavor, and of course, increase the amount of chocolate chips or chunks. This double-chocolate version is indulgence at its finest.
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Use Coconut For A Tropical Flavor
- For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut into the mix. Coconut complements the oats and chocolate while giving your cookies a unique chewy texture. Toasting the coconut before adding it to the dough can elevate the flavor even more, bringing out its natural sweetness.
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Spices For A Warming Touch
- If you want to infuse a bit of spice, try adding ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger to the dough. A teaspoon of cinnamon is enough to give the cookies a warm, comforting aroma and flavor that feels perfect for colder months. These spices can bring a whole new dimension to the taste of the cookies.
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Vegan Or Dairy-Free Options
- For a dairy-free or vegan alternative, simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter, and replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg (1 tablespoon of ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). For the chocolate chips, make sure to use dairy-free chocolate. This variation maintains the rich, chewy texture of the original without the dairy.
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Gluten-Free Version
- If you’re looking to make these cookies gluten-free, swap the regular flour for a good-quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the oats you use are certified gluten-free, as some brands can be contaminated with gluten during processing. This adjustment allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy these chewy treats without worry.
These variations can make each batch a little bit different and add extra layers of flavor to Mary Berry’s already perfect cookie recipe. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand, and who knows-you may create your own signature version of the cookie!
Storing Leftovers
When it comes to cookies, one of the best things is knowing you can store them for later. Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies are easy to store and can stay fresh for a few days if done right. Proper storage ensures that you can enjoy these cookies at their best for a longer time. Here’s how to store them effectively:
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Room Temperature Storage
- If you plan to eat the cookies within a few days, simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the cookies fresh without drying them out. They should stay soft and chewy for about 3-4 days. You can even layer them with parchment paper between each layer of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
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Freezing For Longer Shelf Life
- Want to keep your cookies for an extended period? Freezing is the best option. Allow the cookies to cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the cookies into a ziplock bag or airtight container. This method will keep them fresh for up to three months. To enjoy them, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes or heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a just-baked feel.
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Freeze The Dough
- If you’re someone who loves to bake cookies fresh, you can freeze the dough itself! After preparing the cookie dough, scoop it into individual cookie portions and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. You can bake them directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This makes for an easy, on-demand treat whenever you want freshly baked cookies.
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Preventing Staleness
- To keep cookies from becoming stale or too hard, avoid storing them in a place that’s too warm or humid. If your kitchen tends to get warm, consider refrigerating the cookies in an airtight container for a few extra days of freshness, though this might change the texture slightly, making them a bit firmer.
Proper storage ensures that your cookies remain a sweet delight every time you reach for one!
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies?
While Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies are delicious enough to stand on their own, pairing them with other treats or beverages can elevate your snack experience. Here are a few ideas for what to enjoy alongside these cookies:
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A Glass Of Milk
- It’s a classic pairing for a reason-milk and cookies go hand in hand. The creaminess of the milk complements the chewy oats and chocolate in the cookie, making every bite even more satisfying. You can go for traditional cow’s milk, or for a dairy-free alternative like almond, oat, or coconut milk for a lighter version.
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Coffee Or Tea
- For a slightly more sophisticated pairing, coffee and tea both work wonderfully with these cookies. A warm cup of coffee, whether black, cappuccino, or a mild latte, brings out the chocolatey richness of the cookies. If you’re more of a tea drinker, try pairing them with a mild green tea or a robust chai tea-spices in the chai complement the oatmeal and chocolate beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream
- What’s better than a warm cookie fresh from the oven? A warm cookie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream! The creamy coldness of the ice cream contrasts with the chewy texture of the cookie, creating a delicious balance. You can even drizzle a little hot fudge sauce over the top for a truly indulgent treat.
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Yogurt And Fruit
- For a lighter, more balanced pairing, serve the cookies alongside some fresh fruit and Greek yogurt. The tartness of berries or sliced banana adds a fresh contrast to the richness of the cookies, while the yogurt gives you a creamy, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the treat.
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Cheese Board
- For an unexpected pairing, try combining these cookies with a simple cheese board. The creamy, mild flavor of cheeses like brie or goat cheese complements the sweetness of the cookies. Add a few slices of pear or apple for a fresh, crisp element to balance the richness of both the cheese and cookies.
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Hot Chocolate
- For the ultimate sweet treat, pair your cookies with a cup of hot chocolate. This is especially comforting during the colder months. You can go for classic hot cocoa, or spice it up with a little cinnamon or peppermint for a seasonal twist.
Each of these pairings adds a different layer of enjoyment to the cookies, turning a simple snack into a delightful experience. Whether you prefer something warm and comforting, light and refreshing, or indulgent, there’s a perfect pairing for you.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies are the epitome of comfort baking: simple, flavorful, and wonderfully versatile. With just a few basic ingredients, they come together to form a chewy, chocolatey treat that’s sure to be a hit with anyone. The best part is that this recipe can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own, pairing them with a drink, or experimenting with delicious variations, these cookies are a treat that can be enjoyed by everyone.
With the right storage techniques, you can also extend the enjoyment of these cookies, keeping them fresh for days or even months. And when you’re in the mood to share or elevate the experience, there’s no shortage of delicious things to eat alongside them.
So, grab your mixing bowl and give these cookies a try. They’re sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies?
To make Mary Berry’s chocolate chip oat cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients: 125g butter, 100g caster sugar, 100g light brown sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 200g rolled oats, 150g self-raising flour, 100g chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt. These simple pantry staples create a deliciously chewy and crunchy cookie.
How Long Do I Bake Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies And At What Temperature?
Mary Berry recommends baking the cookies at 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be golden around the edges but still soft in the middle. Be careful not to overbake them; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool on the tray.
Can I Customize Mary Berry’s Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies By Adding Other Ingredients?
Yes, you can easily customize the recipe! If you’d like to add more flavor or texture, try incorporating ingredients like dried fruit (raisins, cranberries), chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. Just be sure to adjust the proportions so the dough remains the right consistency for easy shaping.
