Amazing Gluten-Free Soft Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

From a Busy Businesswoman's Kitchen: The Joy of Gluten-Free Baking

As a businesswoman, my days are often a whirlwind of meetings, deadlines, and travel. Finding moments of peace and grounding amidst the chaos can be challenging, but I've discovered a surprising sanctuary: my kitchen. Baking, particularly gluten-free baking, has become my therapy, my creative outlet, and my way of nourishing both body and soul.

I've always had a sweet tooth, but a few years ago, I was diagnosed with gluten sensitivity. It felt like a culinary door had slammed shut. No more indulging in my favorite cookies, cakes, or pastries – at least not the traditional kind. Initially, the transition to a gluten-free diet was daunting. The alternatives seemed bland and the textures often disappointing. But I wasn't ready to give up on my sweet treats. I started experimenting, adapting old family recipes and exploring new ingredients. It was a journey of trial and error, marked by a few kitchen disasters along the way. But slowly, I began to master the art of gluten-free baking. I discovered the unique properties of various flours – almond, coconut, rice – and learned how to combine them to create textures that rivaled their gluten-filled counterparts.

My gluten-free oatmeal raisin cookies are a testament to this journey. They are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of brown rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca starch creates a delicate crumb, while the cinnamon, cloves, and raisins add a touch of warmth and spice. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they're a reminder that a gluten-free lifestyle doesn't have to mean deprivation. It can be an opportunity to rediscover the joy of cooking and to create delicious, healthy treats that nourish both body and soul.

Baking, for me, is more than just following a recipe; it’s a form of self-care. The rhythmic motions of mixing, the comforting aromas that fill the kitchen, the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious – these are the rituals that ground me, that allow me to escape the pressures of my day and reconnect with myself. And sharing these creations with friends, family, and colleagues is my way of spreading a little bit of that joy.

In the midst of my busy schedule, I’ve learned to carve out time for this simple pleasure. Even if it’s just for an hour on a Sunday afternoon, the act of baking centers me, reminds me to slow down, and nourishes me in a way that no business meeting ever could. So, next time you find yourself craving a sweet treat, don't be afraid to venture into the world of gluten-free baking. You might be surprised at the delicious discoveries that await you. And who knows, you might even find your own little sanctuary in the process.

My Tips for Gluten-Free Baking Success:

• Invest in a good gluten-free flour blend. There are many excellent blends available on the market, and they can save you the hassle of mixing your own.
• Don't overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Use a combination of starches and flours. This will help to create a more balanced texture.
• Experiment with different flavors and add-ins. Don't be afraid to get creative!
• Most importantly, have fun! Gluten-free baking can be a rewarding and delicious experience.

Step-by-step

• Cream sugar,crisco with mixer 2 minutes, add eggs,vanilla beat in one minute
• Mix all dry ingredients in separate bowl
• Measure water from raisins add more to make 1/2 cup liquid
• Add liquid and dry ingredients. Mix well, add raisins
• Heat Oven 400 degrees
• Heaping tsp on ungreased pan or use parchment paper
• Bake. 8 to 9 min. Middle rack