A stupid question...

I'm new at baking cookies, and I just dont know how to do it. I tried to bake some oatmeal cookies and in the end what I got was a mixture of cookes and ....cake....all mixed up...

 When I put it in the oven i thought the shape will stay..but no! So, what can i do, how do i prevent this from happening?

 thanks!

Hmmmm...I think I need a little more info. What recipe are you using? Are you making any substitutions? Are you at an altitude?

http://caloriecount.about.com/recipe/393.html

 

i tried this.... 

Did you use the right measuring spoons and not just ones from the drawer? Perhaps too much baking soda - that made mine puff up an d not stay together.

If the cookie dough has shortening or butter/margarine, then you should chill it in the freezer before cutting or forming it into shapes. The cold fats hold it together... as they get to room temperature, the cookie dough becomes too soft.

If you replaced the shortening or butter/margarine with oil or applesauce, it will not keep its shape. I see the recipe has applesauce. Spread the dough in a pan, bake it, and cut it into squares, instead.

You also need to make sure your oven setting is high enough.

the recipe you used will turn out a cakey result.  Have a look at the Holiday Recipes Makeove thread at the top of the forum for healthy cookie recipes.  I should have them up this morning!

blackthorn and clairelane are absolutely right.  applesauce can replace oil in a cake or brownie recipe, but not butter for cookies.  They won't spread out, and they won't get crispy.

Don't get discouraged and just remember...your food is only as good as the recipe!