If there’s one cookie recipe that has been a constant in my life, it’s this one. Oatmeal Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies have a special place in my heart, not just because they’re delicious, but because they’re steeped in family tradition and nostalgia. These cookies, which originated from the iconic Frog Commissary in Philadelphia, have been a favorite in my family for as long as I can remember.
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A Little History: The Frog Commissary
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate where it all began. The Frog Commissary, nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, has been a culinary institution since its founding in 1973. It’s known for its innovative and eclectic menu, blending comfort food with gourmet flair. The Frog Commissary’s oatmeal chocolate chip cookies have become one of its signature items, loved by locals and visitors alike. These cookies perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the Commissary: classic, comforting, and just a little bit indulgent.
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The Frog Commissary Cookbook
These incredible cookies come from the iconic Frog Commissary Cookbook
A Family Tradition
Growing up, these cookies were a staple in our home, thanks to my aunts who seemed to always have a batch ready at Christmas or stored in the freezer in the hot summer months. The smell of warm oats, melting chocolate, and toasty nuts would fill the kitchen, drawing everyone in. It didn’t matter what the occasion was—whether it was a holiday gathering, a simple Sunday afternoon, or just because—these cookies were always there, and they quickly became a family favorite.
It’s no surprise that these cookies have become a favorite in my own household too. My husband absolutely loves them, and I’ve continued the tradition of baking them regularly. There’s something so comforting about biting into a chewy, chocolatey, nutty cookie that takes me right back to my childhood.
Experimenting with Mix-Ins
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. While the original Frog Commissary recipe calls for chocolate chips, I like to play around with different mix-ins depending on my mood or what I have in the pantry. Walnuts are my go-to because they add a wonderful crunch and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate. But I also love using hazelnuts for a more decadent flavor or pecans for a buttery richness.
Of course, you can always stick to the classic chocolate chip combination, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Sometimes, I’ll throw in a handful of dried cranberries or coconut flakes for a different twist. No matter what you add, these cookies always turn out delicious.
The Recipe: Oatmeal Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
Now that you know a bit about the history and why these cookies are so special to me, let’s get to the recipe. It’s simple, straightforward, and yields about 4 dozen cookies—enough to share, but you might find yourself keeping them all to yourself!
Oatmeal Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined.
- Stir in the rolled oats, bittersweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts by hand until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop 1-inch balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 1/2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 1-2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
A Timeless Favorite
These Oatmeal Walnut Chocolate Chip Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a link to my past, a favorite of my husband’s, and a recipe that I’m sure will continue to be passed down through our family. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own mix-ins, I hope these cookies bring as much joy to your kitchen as they do to mine.
So, what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven and get baking—because these cookies won’t last long once they’re out of the oven!
Looking for more recipes? Be sure to check out my favorite family heirloom recipes here. Happy baking!
