These Apple Biscuits are a perfect blend of wholesome ingredients, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional biscuits. Made without sugar, flour, or eggs, these biscuits are not only gluten-free but also vegan-friendly. The natural sweetness of apple puree, combined with the crunch of almonds, walnuts, and the tangy bite of dried cranberries and raisins, make for a snack that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a healthy snack to enjoy with your tea, these apple biscuits are both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, they can be baked or pan-cooked, making them incredibly versatile and easy to prepare in any kitchen setting.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (250 ml) oatmeal
• 240 g apple puree
• 50 g almonds
• 50 g walnuts
• 50 g dried cranberries
• 50 g raisins
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, almonds, walnuts, dried cranberries, and raisins. Make sure all the nuts and dried fruits are evenly distributed.
2. Add the Apple Puree:
   Pour the apple puree over the dry mixture. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined, creating a sticky dough-like consistency.
3. Add Olive Oil:
   Add the olive oil to the mixture and stir well. The olive oil will help bind the ingredients and give the biscuits a slight richness.
4. Shape the Biscuits:
   Using your hands, form small biscuit shapes, about 1-2 tablespoons of mixture per biscuit. Press them down slightly to flatten.
5. Cooking Option 1 – In the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Place the shaped biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on the edges. Let them cool completely before serving.
6. Cooking Option 2 – In the Pan:
   Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Place the biscuits in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and firm.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Once cooked, allow the biscuits to cool slightly. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Biscuit):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Sugars: 8 g (from natural sources)
  • Fiber: 3 g
• Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 2 mg
• Vitamins: High in Vitamin E, Vitamin C (from apples), and Magnesium
• Minerals: Good source of Iron, Potassium, and Calcium

FAQs:

1. Can I substitute the apple puree with something else?
Yes, you can substitute apple puree with pumpkin puree, mashed bananas, or even pear puree for a different flavor profile. These substitutes also provide natural sweetness.

2. Are these biscuits gluten-free?
Yes, these apple biscuits are naturally gluten-free as they use oatmeal instead of traditional wheat flour. Just ensure that the oats you’re using are certified gluten-free.

3. Can I make these biscuits oil-free?
Yes, if you prefer an oil-free version, you can omit the olive oil or substitute it with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce for added moisture.

4. What can I use instead of dried cranberries or raisins?
You can use other dried fruits like chopped dates, dried apricots, or figs. You can also add dark chocolate chips for a more indulgent treat.

5. Can I freeze these biscuits?
Yes, these biscuits freeze well. Once they are completely cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven when ready to eat.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store these biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They tend to soften slightly over time but will still be delicious.
• Refrigeration: If you’d like to keep them for longer, place the biscuits in the refrigerator where they can last for up to a week. They will retain their freshness and texture better in a cool environment.
• Freezing: To store them for extended periods, freeze the biscuits in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven at 180°C (360°F) for 5 minutes to regain their crispness.

Cooking Tips:

• Consistency of Oatmeal: Make sure the oatmeal absorbs the water well and becomes soft before combining it with other ingredients. This ensures the biscuits have a tender texture.
• Chop Nuts Finely: To ensure even distribution of nuts and dried fruits, chop the almonds, walnuts, and dried fruits finely. This allows every bite to have a balance of flavors and textures.
• Baking Time: If baking in the oven, keep a close eye on the biscuits after 15 minutes to prevent over-browning. They should be golden on the outside but soft on the inside.
• Pan-Cooking Tip: When cooking in a pan, use a non-stick skillet to avoid sticking and ensure even browning. Cook on medium-low heat to avoid burning the biscuits before they’re fully cooked.

Conclusion:

These Apple Biscuits are the perfect way to enjoy a healthy snack or breakfast that’s free from common allergens like flour, eggs, and added sugars. Not only are they easy to make, but they’re also packed with natural ingredients that offer a range of health benefits, from the fiber in oats to the heart-healthy fats in nuts. Whether you’re preparing them in the oven or in a pan, they come out with a perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, and sweet. Customizable and versatile, these biscuits are a great addition to your recipe repertoire, providing a nutritious treat that the whole family can enjoy. Whether you’re on a specific diet or just looking for a guilt-free indulgence, these apple biscuits are sure to become a favorite!