Step 1

Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350℉ (177℃), with rack in the center position.

Step 2

Prep raisins (if using): Add 1 tablespoon raisins to a small bowl and cover with warm water. Set aside while you prep the dough. (Skip if making plain or chocolate variation).

Step 3

Wet ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon melted salted butter, 4 teaspoons tightly packed brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cold water, and ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until completely smooth.

Step 4

Dry ingredients: To the wet ingredients, add 2 tablespoons all purpose flour, 2 tablespoons rolled oats, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and ⅛ teaspoon baking soda (see note 5 for tip on measuring ⅛ teaspoon). Stir just until a soft dough forms.

Step 5

Add mix-in (if using): If using raisins: Pat raisins dry with paper towel. Stir into dough until just combined. If using chocolate: Add 1 tablespoon chocolate to the dough and stir until just combined.

Step 6

Bake: Scoop dough into a ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use the palm of your hand to lightly flatten the top slightly. Bake until the edges are golden-brown, 11 to 13 minutes. (For perfectly round cookies, use a spatula to smooth edges while hot from oven). Let cookie cool on baking sheet for 10 minutes to set. Enjoy!