Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies) Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth that craves both a rich, buttery treat and the warm, hearty comfort of oatmeal, then you absolutely must try these Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies). Picture this: a perfectly chewy oatmeal base topped with a luscious, irresistibly gooey butter filling that’s every bit as addictive as its nickname suggests. These cookies brilliantly marry the best of two worlds, delivering a satisfying texture and a flavor explosion that will have you reaching for one cookie… and then another. If you’re ready for a dessert experience that’s equal parts cozy and decadent, these Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies) are your new best friend in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you; these simple, pantry-friendly staples come together to create a cookie that’s extraordinary in taste and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role from the nutty aroma of oats to the rich, smooth butter that makes the filling melt in your mouth.

• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that perfect cookie texture.
• Brown sugar: Provides moisture and a subtle caramel flavor essential for depth.
• Milk powder: Enhances the creaminess in the filling, making it extra luscious.
• Cornstarch: Helps achieve that iconic gooey, custard-like consistency in the filling.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and brightens flavor throughout.
• Unsalted butter: Both melted and softened butter add richness and tenderness.
• Heavy cream: Infuses the filling with decadence and smooth texture.
• Vanilla extract: A warm, fragrant note that ties all the flavors together.
• Egg yolks and whole eggs: Bring structure and silkiness to the filling and cookie dough.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy yet tender base of the cookies.
• Old-fashioned rolled oats: Provide wholesome texture and wholesome oatmeal flavor.
• Baking soda: Leavens the cookies for a delicate rise and light crumb.

How to Make Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies)

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing an 8×8-inch baking pan. The filling is where the magic begins: mixing together granulated sugar, brown sugar, milk powder, cornstarch, and salt helps to set up that rich custard texture. A quick tip—the milk powder can sometimes be a little grainy, so sieving it first creates a smoother filling. Incorporate melted butter on low speed to keep it silky before adding the heavy cream and vanilla, which gives the filling its signature creamy flavor. Gradually whisk in the egg yolks until the mixture turns glossy and smooth. Pop it in the oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, and watch for the edges to bubble and become golden brown. It may look too soft at first, but cooling chills it into the perfect consistency.

Step 2: Chill and Whip the Filling

Once baked, allow the filling to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for at least four hours or overnight. When chilled, scoop the sticky filling from the pan—pro tip: spraying your spoon with nonstick spray helps with this challenge! Use a mixer on medium speed to whisk the filling until it’s luxuriously smooth and fluffy, roughly one to two minutes.

Step 3: Make the Oatmeal Cookie Dough

While you let your filling set in the freezer, prepare the cookie dough. Preheat the oven again to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Mix your dry ingredients: flour, oats, baking soda, and salt, for that hearty oatmeal texture. Then cream room temperature butter with sugars until light and fluffy—this is key to a tender cookie base. Beat in eggs and vanilla, then fold in the dry mix. Since the dough is thick, finish mixing by hand for even incorporation without toughening the dough.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Cookies

Scoop out generous portions of dough (a large ice cream scoop or ¼ cup measure works well) onto the baking sheet, but only bake a few at a time as they tend to spread. Lightly press the tops flat to create a perfect platform for the filling. Then dollop the cold, whipped filling on each cookie base and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Look for edges that are golden but centers still pale. Cooling is critical here—the filling needs time to reset, so resist the urge to eat right away!

Step 5: Final Touch

Once completely cool, dust your Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies) with powdered sugar for a delicate finish that enhances their sweetness without overpowering. Now you have a cookie that’s a harmonious marriage of chewy oats and buttery, melt-in-your-mouth filling.

How to Serve Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies)

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before serving if you love that sweet-and-salty combo—the little hits of salt elevate the rich butter and brown sugar flavors to a new level. For an extra touch, a light drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce can also turn these cookies into a show-stopping dessert.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a strongly brewed cup of coffee to balance the sweetness. If you’re feeling fancy, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side is pure bliss, turning your snack into a decadent dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests or make a gift extra special, stack these cookies on a pretty plate with parchment paper and tie with a rustic ribbon. Or sandwich two cookies together with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent treat. They also freeze well, so you can plate a batch ahead for parties or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their chewy texture and gooey filling. Beyond that, refrigeration will extend freshness while firming up the filling for a different, but still delightful, experience.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies) can keep up to three months. This is perfect for baking in bulk and enjoying treats whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To enjoy them warm, gently thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 30 minutes, then heat briefly in a microwave or oven at low temperature. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven gooeyness and enhances the flavor, making like you just baked them.

FAQs

What makes these cookies “crack pie” cookies?

The name “crack pie” hints at their irresistibly addictive nature. The gooey butter filling is so rich, sweet, and satisfying that once you try them, it’s hard to stop eating. The balance of buttery richness, sweet caramel notes, and oatmeal chewiness is truly captivating.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Old-fashioned oats provide a heartier texture that withstands baking well. Quick oats tend to break down and may result in a softer cookie, so for the ideal chew and structure, stick with rolled oats.

Is there a way to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend suited for baking. Just be mindful that the texture might vary slightly, but the gooey butter filling remains the same luscious treat.

Why is the butter in the filling both melted and softened?

This technique ensures the filling has the right texture: melted butter blends smoothly with sugars and cream to create a custard base, while softened butter in the cookie dough gives the cookies a tender crumb without being greasy.

Can I prepare the filling and cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The filling needs to chill and thicken, so preparing it a day in advance is actually recommended. Cookie dough can also be made ahead and refrigerated; just bring it to room temperature before scooping to ensure proper spreading and texture.

Final Thoughts

These Gooey Butter Oatmeal Cookies (Crack Pie Cookies) are a wonderful treat that brings down-the-house flavor and texture into one unforgettable bite. Whether you’re sharing with friends, gifting, or keeping them all to yourself, they never disappoint. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll find yourself craving them time and time again—so go ahead, dive into their gooey, buttery goodness!

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