Golden Oat Crisps

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature ensures the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color. While the oven is warming up, line three baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour, which contributes to the cookies' proper rise and flavor.

3. Cream Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and light brown sugar on medium-low speed for about 20 seconds. Then, increase the speed to medium and continue beating for about one minute until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the butter, creating a light and tender cookie.

4. Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and beat on medium-low speed for approximately 30 seconds until fully incorporated. This ensures that the egg blends evenly, contributing to the cookies' structure and flavor.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the flour mixture and mix for about 10 seconds, just until the flour is mostly incorporated. Gradually add the old-fashioned rolled oats and mix on low for about 20 seconds until everything is well combined. The oats provide a delightful texture and heartiness to the cookies.

6. Shape the Dough

Using your hands, roll the dough into balls, each measuring about 2 tablespoons. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2.5 inches apart to allow for spreading. Gently press each ball to about 0.75-inch thickness to help them bake evenly.

7. Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 13 to 16 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through the baking time. Look for cookies that are deep golden brown with crisp edges and centers that yield slightly to pressure. This balance of textures makes each bite delightful.

8. Cool the Cookies

Once baked, transfer the baking sheets to a wire rack and let the cookies cool completely. This cooling step allows the cookies to firm up and develop their final texture.