Preheat the oven to 350°F. Salivate with anticipation. Line 2 baking sheets with Silpats or parchment paper and set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter and both sugars on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to incorporate each one well before adding another. Mix in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, sift the baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon together. Add this to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until incorporated. Then, on low speed, add the oats, wheat germ, raisins, and walnuts (if using), stirring just until mixed.

Chill the dough until the butter firms up, about 30 minutes

Use a tablespoon-size ice cream scooper or a tablespoon to place balls of dough 5 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake 1 sheet at a time in the center of the oven for 16 to 18 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown. They’ll still be a little soft in the center, but this is the good, chewy part!

Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 18 minutes. Then use a spatula to transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.