Do you remember the Quaker Oats cookie recipe from back in 1976-1979. They always came out chewie that first day and if any were left over the net day they were crunchie. It was a win win situtation. But can not get them to come out that way now. Now they are cakey.

Are you adding too much flour?

Might be oven temperature or technique - check links:
http://www.saveur.com/article/Techniques/Cakey-vs-Chewy
http://savvyspatula.blogspot.com/201...y-cookies.html
http://kimskantancooking.blogspot.co...vs-chewey.html

I have an old tin box with the 'Robin Hood' brands recipe for Oatmeal-Raisin cookies on it.

This recipe is my 'go-to' one for oatmeal cookies! I have had several people request it after they taste one of these.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Soft-Oa...es/Detail.aspx

I have the recipe that my mom used to use from the box. It is

Oatmeal Cookies

3/4 cup vegetable shortening (butter flavored)
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups Oats (Old Fashion), uncooked
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Beat together shortening, sugars, egg, water, and vanilla until creamy.
Add combined remaining ingredients; mix well.
Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheet.
Bake in preheated moderate oven (350 degrees) for 12 to 15 minutes.
For a variety, add chopped nuts, raisins, chocolate chips.
I always put in tons of raisins.
Hope you enjoy!!!!!

Sounds like a good recipe

Are you using the correct oatmeal?
Old-fashion for baked cookies
Quick for No-bake cookies

I think the other key in the cookies besides the Old Fashion Oatmeal is the shortening. Friends have tried using butter, etc and the cookies just did not turn out the same.

The new transfat free shortenings do make a difference. Bring back the good stuff!

I was craving something sweet. I have all this in my pantry, got a batch in the oven as I am typing. Thank you Audrey39.