Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest

#### Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, **cream together the softened butter**, **brown sugar**, and **granulated sugar** until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. The mixture should be pale and airy when done.

#### Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the **eggs**, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the **vanilla extract** and mix until combined. The dough will become slightly smoother at this stage.

#### Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking soda**, **salt**, and **ground cinnamon** (if using). Once combined, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.

#### Step 5: Add Oats, Cranberries, Walnuts, and Lemon Zest
Fold in the **rolled oats**, **dried cranberries**, **chopped walnuts**, and the **zest of one lemon**. The lemon zest will infuse the dough with a delightful citrus fragrance that will make your kitchen smell amazing as the cookies bake.

#### Step 6: Portion the Cookie Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into **1 1/2-inch balls** and place them onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart, as the cookies will spread slightly as they bake.

#### Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about **10-12 minutes** or until the edges are golden and the centers are set but still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them toward the end to avoid over-baking. Remember that the cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven.

#### Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly while they cool and prevents them from breaking apart.

Now, you have a batch of **Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest**, ready to be enjoyed! With every bite, you’ll get the perfect combination of chewy oats, crunchy walnuts, tart cranberries, and that refreshing hint of citrus. It’s the perfect treat for any time of day.

### Why These Cookies Are a Healthier Option

While cookies are often considered indulgent, these **Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest** have a number of benefits that make them a more wholesome option compared to others. Here’s why:

– **Oats**: Packed with fiber, oats help promote digestive health and provide a steady source of energy.
– **Cranberries**: These antioxidant-rich berries are great for boosting immunity and promoting urinary tract health.
– **Walnuts**: Full of healthy fats, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts support heart health and reduce inflammation.
– **Lemon**: The fresh lemon zest adds a burst of Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health.

### Tips and Variations

– **For Softer Cookies**: If you prefer a softer cookie, you can reduce the baking time slightly. Aim for the cookies to be just set in the center and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet for a chewier texture.
– **Add Some Chocolate**: For an extra treat, try folding in a handful of **dark chocolate chips** along with the cranberries and walnuts. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the tart cranberries.
– **Make Them Vegan**: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) in place of the eggs.
– **Freeze for Later**: If you want to make a big batch ahead of time, you can freeze the dough in individual cookie balls. Just place the balls on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them onto a baking sheet and bake as directed—no need to thaw!

### Final Thoughts

These **Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest** are more than just a cookie—they’re a celebration of flavor and texture! The combination of chewy oats, crunchy walnuts, tart cranberries, and the bright citrus zing of lemon creates a cookie that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, they offer a healthier alternative to your average cookie, thanks to the nutritional benefits of oats, nuts, and fruit.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a special occasion, or just because, these cookies are a surefire hit. So grab your mixing bowl and oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these irresistible oatmeal cookies today!