Need a dessert to serve on Groundhog Day? How about some quick and easy cookies that resemble those cute little rodents that the day is named for? Oatmeal Butterscotch Groundhogs are chewy, crunchy, and loaded with butterscotch. Serve them alone, or pair them with ice cream or a creamy pudding such as tapioca or rice pudding.

Groundhog Day is celebrated on February 2nd each year; it’s not a holiday where banks and businesses are closed. Chances are it’s a day that most are even expected to show up for work. Make a batch of these cookies to share with co-workers, or serve them for dessert to family after a main course of “ground hog.” It won’t really matter if the groundhog sees his shadow as long as there’s something good on the menu.

Makes about six dozen cookies

1 cup butter
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla
1 3/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups oatmeal, plus more for rolling
2 cups butterscotch chips

Semisweet chocolate chips, for eyes

1. Preheat the oven to 350°.


2. Cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy; add the eggs and vanilla.


3. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour, baking soda, and salt; mix well.


4. Stir in the oatmeal and butterscotch chips.


5. Pour about a cup of oatmeal onto a large plate.


6. Scoop tablespoons of the dough onto the plate and roll each in the oatmeal.


7. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets 2" apart (or baking sheets sprayed with non-stick spray).


8. Press two chocolate chips into each ball for eyes.


9. Bake 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned and set.


10. Let sit on the baking sheet a minute or two before transferring to cooling racks.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 81 Calories from Fat 41
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 50% Protein 5% Carb. 44%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 5 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 13 mg
Sodium 73 mg
Total Carbohydrate 9 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 1 g

Vitamin A 2% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 0% Iron 2%