Chewy Rice Krispie Oatmeal Cookies

There’s something nostalgic about oatmeal cookies, but let’s be honest, they can be a little boring. These Rice Krispie Oatmeal Cookies flip the script. They’re soft in the middle, crisp around the edges, and have that surprise crackle from crispy cereal that keeps you coming back for just one more. It’s a simple twist, but it makes a big difference.

Soft in the middle, crisp on the edges.

There’s something nostalgic about oatmeal cookies. These Rice Krispie Oatmeal Cookies shake things up in the best way. You still get that buttery, chewy base, but with a light crunch that catches you off guard. A little maple, a splash of molasses, warm cinnamon, they’ve got it all.

The Cookie You Didn’t Know You Needed

I made these on a random weeknight to use up the Rice Krispies leftover from a batch of brown butter Rice Krispie treats. What I didn’t expect was that they’d instantly join the ranks of our cookie favorites. They’re quick (no chilling the dough!), pantry-friendly, and the texture is next-level.

You get that soft oatmeal cookie bite you’re used to, but then there’s this airy crispness from the cereal that keeps things interesting.

Texture Talk: Chewy + Crispy

The chewy part? That comes from the brown sugar, eggs, and old-fashioned oats. (Don’t swap in quick oats here.)The crispy part? All about the Rice Krispies.

And here’s the key to keeping them soft in the center: don’t overbake. As soon as the edges are golden, pull them out of the oven. Let them sit on the baking sheet for a minute or two so they can finish setting up without drying out.

Make a Rice Krispies bar at your next party and serve these alongside yummy brown butter Rice Krispie treats and chocolate peanut butter Rice Krispie bars.

Ingredients for Chewy Rice Krispie Oatmeal Cookies

Here’s a quick peek at the essential ingredients. Check the recipe card below for exact amounts and full instructions.

• Molasses and Maple Syrup – These add deep, rich flavors that complement the cinnamon and oats. Make sure to use real maple syrup and not pancake syrup.
• Oats and Rice Krispies – The heart of these cookies, providing the essential chewy and crispy textures. You can use any type of crispy rice cereal. For the oatmeal, don’t use instant, you’ll need old fashioned oatmeal.

How to Make the Most Amazing Cookies

Step One: Preheat the oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350º and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper, you don’t have to refrigerate this cookie dough.

Step Two: Cream it all together

Step Three: Mix the dry stuff

Whisk together the dry ingredients and gradually blend them into your creamed mixture just until everything is combined.

Step Four: Fold in the oats + cereal

Step Five: Bake

Storage Tips

You can keep them on the counter in an airtight container for about five days, they’ll stay fresher and chewier longer if you freeze them. They thaw in minutes, or you can warm one up for 10 seconds in the microwave.