Mom’s Famous Yum Yum Cookies: A Heartfelt Recipe Tradition

Discover the magic of these incredible Yum Yum Cookies, a cherished family recipe brimming with a delightful blend of coconut, chocolate chips, wholesome oatmeal, and crispy Rice Krispies. Known for their light, airy texture and irresistible flavor, these cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a legacy. I am honored to share Mom’s beloved recipe with you, along with the poignant story that makes them truly unforgettable.

The Heartwarming Legacy of Alice’s Yum Yum Cookies

This particular cookie recipe holds an exceptionally special place in many hearts, including my own. It originates from the kitchen of my dear friend Rhonda’s mother, Alice, who was renowned for these delectable cookies. I can wholeheartedly promise that from the very first bite, you will understand precisely why they earned such fame and adoration within their community and extended family.

Rhonda, one of eleven children, experienced profound loss a year ago with the passing of her mother, Alice, followed shortly by her father. As you can well imagine, this was an incredibly emotional and challenging period for their large family. In a beautiful and touching tribute at their memorial service, the family shared not only this cherished cookie recipe but also a fun, mathematical “trick” that her dad always kept on his business card, a trick through which he could always correctly guess your age. This gesture ensured that a piece of both their parents’ warmth, generosity, and unique spirit would live on and be shared with everyone who loved them. The Yum Yum Cookies became a symbol of comfort, memory, and enduring family bonds.

Mom’s Enduring Yum Yum Cookie Tradition

When I asked Rhonda to share the origins of these legendary cookies, she graciously recounted the heartwarming tale:

“When I was in high school, I visited my friend Susie’s house, and she had baked some cookies that were absolutely divine. I immediately asked for the recipe and brought it home to my Mom. That recipe was an instant hit with our family, quickly becoming a staple. Mom made those cookies faithfully for over 35 years! She always kept a special cookie bucket in the freezer, and all the kids, grandkids, and eventually great-grandkids knew it would always be filled with her special cookies, ready for them to enjoy at any moment. It was a constant source of joy and a comforting presence in our home. When Mom passed away last year, it felt right to share that precious recipe with everyone at her funeral. It was our way of ensuring her memory, and the wonderful tradition of these cookies, would continue to live on, bringing happiness to countless more generations.”

Why These Yum Yum Cookies Are Truly Unforgettable

These Yum Yum Cookies offer an unparalleled combination of textures and flavors that truly sets them apart. The harmonious blend of hearty oats, moist shredded coconut, crisp Rice Krispies, and rich chocolate chips creates a symphony in every bite. They are, hands down, one of my absolute favorite cookies. But it’s not just their incredible taste that captivates me; it’s the profound emotional connection they evoke. Every time I pull out this recipe, I get a little teary-eyed, thinking of Alice and the beautiful legacy she left behind. It’s a testament to how food can truly connect us across generations and through shared memories.

This generous recipe yields approximately five dozen cookies, making it absolutely perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re planning a large family gathering, contributing to a potluck, participating in a festive cookie exchange, or simply want a substantial stash, these cookies are ideal. You’ll have plenty to enjoy fresh from the oven today, with ample leftovers to freeze for a delightful treat tomorrow or next month. They are incredibly versatile and always a welcome addition to any occasion.

If you’re looking to explore other delightful cookie options that bring joy and warmth, you might also enjoy these highly recommended recipes: Pie Crust Cookies, for a unique and buttery experience; Orange Ginger Refrigerator Cookies, offering a refreshing zest; or these festive Cherry Wink Cookies, perfect for celebrations.

A Personal Anecdote: Capturing the Spirit of Alice

Before we delve into the detailed recipe, I must share a special story about the photographs you see here. While setting up for the photo shoot, I was reaching for a specific mug I intended to use. As I rummaged through my buffet, my eyes fell upon a collection of small Scrabble tiles. An idea sparked: why not incorporate them into the photos?

I started by arranging tiles to spell “yum yum” around the mug, capturing the essence of these delicious treats. Next, I placed some freshly baked cookies into a charming container, visualizing how perfect they would be as a thoughtful gift. Then, I added the word “Mom’s” using the Scrabble tiles. At that very moment, as I lifted my camera to snap the picture, a brilliant ray of sunlight pierced through the door, landing directly and perfectly onto the word “Mom’s.” It was an undeniable, total goosebump moment! It truly felt as though Alice, Rhonda’s mother, was right there with me, offering her warm approval and presence as I photographed her cherished cookies. It was a beautiful, comforting sign.

Essential Ingredients for Mom’s Yum Yum Cookies

You’ll find the precise measurements and comprehensive instructions conveniently listed in the printable recipe card towards the end of this article.

• Oleo or Butter: You’ll need one cup of softened butter or margarine. For the best flavor and texture, I personally recommend using good quality butter. If opting for butter, ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal creaming.
• Sugar: This recipe calls for a balanced blend of one cup of granulated sugar and one cup of light brown sugar. This combination contributes to the cookies’ perfect sweetness and adds a subtle depth of flavor, as Alice intended.
• Cooking Oil: One cup of mild-flavored cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, is essential. It helps create the wonderfully moist and tender crumb that distinguishes these cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of pure vanilla extract is preferred for its rich aroma and flavor. However, imitation vanilla will also work if that’s what you have on hand, though pure extract provides a superior taste.
• Egg: You’ll need one large egg. I typically use large white eggs for baking, but any type of large egg will integrate beautifully into the dough.
• All-Purpose Flour: Three and a half cups of all-purpose flour form the structure of these delightful cookies. Ensure it’s measured correctly to achieve the desired consistency.
• Baking Soda: One teaspoon of baking soda is a crucial leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and become beautifully light.
• Cream of Tartar: One teaspoon of cream of tartar is a key ingredient for achieving the signature light and airy texture of these Yum Yum Cookies. It reacts with the baking soda to create a delicate crumb. Don’t skip it!
• Salt: A teaspoon of salt helps balance the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors in the cookie.
• Shredded Coconut: One cup of sweetened shredded coconut adds a wonderful chewiness and tropical flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Chocolate Chips: One cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips provides bursts of rich chocolate flavor throughout the cookies. You can also experiment with other types if you prefer.
• Oatmeal: One cup of old-fashioned rolled oats is specified. It’s important to use rolled oats for the correct texture; instant or steel-cut oats will not yield the same results.
• Rice Krispies: One cup of Rice Krispies cereal adds an unexpected, delightful crunch that contributes to the unique character of these cookies. Any store-brand crispy rice cereal will work just as well.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bake Alice’s Yum Yum Cookies

Making these beloved cookies is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these steps to recreate Alice’s famous Yum Yum Cookies in your own kitchen:

1. Prepare Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature when your dough is ready.
2. Cream Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of your stand mixer (or a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer), cream together the softened butter (or oleo) and both white and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough.

3. Incorporate Remaining Wet Ingredients: Add the cooking oil, vanilla extract, and the egg to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and remove any lumps, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
5. Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the sifted flour mixture into the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Mix until no dry streaks of flour remain.

6. Fold in Goodies: By hand, gently fold in the Rice Krispies, sweetened shredded coconut, old-fashioned oatmeal, and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use a rubber spatula to ensure these delightful additions are evenly distributed throughout the dough without crushing the Rice Krispies.

(A friendly reminder: Resist the temptation to eat too much of the delicious cookie dough before it makes it to the oven!)

7. Portion and Bake: Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of cookie dough onto an ungreased baking sheet, or preferably, one lined with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup. Leave adequate space between each cookie for spreading.

8. Bake to Perfection: Bake for approximately 12 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cookies should be lightly golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
9. Cool and Store: Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack immediately to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.

This recipe makes a generous batch of about five dozen cookies, perfect for sharing!

 

Love It? Pin It!

If you’re captivated by this wonderful recipe for Alice’s Yum Yum Cookies, ensure you don’t lose track of it! Make sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you move on. This way, you can easily find it whenever you’re ready to bake a batch of these unforgettable treats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Yum Yum Cookies

What exactly is oleo?

Oleo is an older term for margarine. If your recipe calls for oleo, you can simply use margarine. One advantage of margarine is that, unlike butter, it doesn’t typically need to be softened at room temperature before use, making for quicker prep.

Is it necessary to grease the cookie sheet?

For hassle-free baking and easy cleanup, I highly recommend placing a piece of parchment paper on your cookie sheets before dropping the cookie dough. This prevents sticking and ensures uniform baking. While greasing can work, parchment paper is generally superior.

What can I use if I don’t have cream of tartar?

While cream of tartar might seem like an uncommon ingredient, it’s excellent to keep on hand due to its long shelf life and the unique texture it imparts to cookies (making them light and airy!). However, if you find yourself without it, you can substitute it. For every ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar, you can use 1 teaspoon of either vinegar or lemon juice. This acidity will react with the baking soda similarly.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Mom’s Yum Yum Cookies will remain fresh and delicious for up to one week. For longer storage, they freeze exceptionally well!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! This recipe yields a large batch, making it perfect for freezing half the dough for later. Simply portion the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight freezer bag. When ready to bake, you can bake them from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

Creative Substitutions to Customize Your Yum Yum Cookies

While the original recipe for Yum Yum Cookies is perfect as is, it’s also wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to get creative and customize them to your personal taste. Here are a few exciting ways you can alter this beloved recipe:

• Fruit Additions: For a fruity twist, consider using plump raisins or tangy currants instead of, or in addition to, the chocolate chips. These dried fruits add a delightful chewiness and natural sweetness.
• Chocolate Variations: Experiment with a combination of different chocolate chips! Try a mix of milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate for varying levels of sweetness and intensity. White chocolate chips could also be a delicious option.
• Alternative Chips: If you’re a fan of other flavors, swap out the chocolate chips for peanut butter chips, butterscotch chips, or even a blend of different flavored chips to create a whole new cookie experience.
• Chunky Chocolate: For a more rustic and substantial chocolate experience, chop up your favorite chocolate bar into chunks instead of using pre-made chips. These will melt beautifully and create pockets of rich chocolate.
• Nutty Additions: While not in the original, a handful of chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds could add an extra layer of crunch and flavor.

Expert Tips & Tricks for Baking Your Best Yum Yum Cookies

• Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: For optimal cookie texture, ensure your butter (or oleo) and egg are at room temperature before you begin mixing. This allows them to cream together more effectively, incorporating air and resulting in a lighter, more tender cookie.
• Do Not Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, dense cookies.
• Proper Cooling: Transferring cookies to a cooling rack immediately after baking is crucial. Leaving them on a hot baking sheet can continue to bake them and make them soggy on the bottom.
• Storage Solutions: Store your freshly baked Yum Yum Cookies in an airtight container on the kitchen counter for up to one week to maintain their delightful crispness and chewiness. For longer preservation, these cookies freeze beautifully for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature.
• Batch Baking Strategy: This recipe yields a generous five dozen cookies, making it ideal for meal prepping or entertaining. Consider baking half the batch now and freezing the other half of the raw dough for a fresh batch later. Simply scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper. It ensures even baking, prevents sticking, and makes cleanup a breeze.

Baking for a Cause: The Sweetest Season and Cookies 4 Kids’ Cancer

This delightful recipe is proudly featured as part of The Sweetest Season, an inspiring annual virtual cookie swap. Co-hosted by Erin from The Speckled Palate and Susannah from Feast + West, this event brings together food bloggers each year to share new and exciting holiday cookie recipes, perfect for baking and giving.

More importantly, this year, we are collectively raising vital funds for Cookies 4 Kids’ Cancer. This recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is passionately dedicated to funding research for new, innovative, and crucially, less-toxic treatments for childhood cancer. Their work makes a tangible difference in the lives of countless young patients and their families.

Since its inception in 2008, Cookies for Kids’ Cancer has made an extraordinary impact, granting nearly $18 million to pediatric cancer research. This funding has supported over 100 research grants at leading pediatric cancer centers across the nation. These grants have directly led to the development of over 35 treatments that are now available to children battling cancer today, offering hope and extending lives.

We urge you to join us in supporting this incredibly important cause! Every contribution helps. Please consider donating through our dedicated fundraising page.

Adding to the excitement, Cookies for Kids’ Cancer is currently in a matching window with their generous friends at OXO. This means that OXO will be matching every dollar raised through the end of 2022, up to an incredible $100,000! Whatever money we manage to raise through our fundraising page will automatically be doubled, magnifying the impact of your generosity and helping twice as many children.

More Classic Cookie Recipes to Love

• Lemon Spritz Cookies (pictured above)
• Old Fashioned Iced Molasses Cookies
• Grandma Jane’s Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
• Butter Brickle Cookies
• Aunt Vern’s Sugar Cookies
• Grandma Jane’s Peanut Butter Cookies

EXPLORE ALL MY DELICIOUS COOKIE RECIPES HERE!

This recipe for Alice’s Yum Yum Cookies is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a unique blend of flavors and textures that truly amazes. The heartwarming story behind them adds an extra layer of sweetness, making each bite a journey into family history and cherished memories. I sincerely hope that your family cherishes these cookies as much as mine and Rhonda’s, and that this special recipe continues to be passed down through generations, creating new memories and traditions along the way. Happy baking!

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