These cocoa oatmeal walnut cookies are a deliciously chewy and nutritious treat, perfect for a quick snack or dessert. They combine the rich taste of cocoa with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of banana for a delightful bite.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 10-12 cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (90g) oatmeal
- 1 Tbsp (7g) cocoa powder
- 30g (1/4 cup) chopped walnuts
- 1 Tsp vanilla sugar
- 30g (1/4 cup) ground almonds
- 30g (1/4 cup) oat flakes
- 1 medium mashed banana
- 2 Tbsp (30ml) water
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) to get it ready for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, cocoa powder, chopped walnuts, vanilla sugar, ground almonds, and oat flakes. Mix well to evenly combine.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the mashed banana and water to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined into a sticky dough.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each scoop slightly with the back of a spoon to shape the cookies.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions:
- Enjoy these cookies warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack.
- Pair them with a glass of plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly treat.
Cooking Tips:
- For added texture, sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts on top of the cookies before baking.
- Make sure to use a ripe banana for the best natural sweetness and binding.
Nutritional Benefits:
- These cookies are packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, making them a guilt-free snack option.
- Walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids, while oats offer a good source of complex carbohydrates.
Storage Tips:
- Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Reasons to Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to make with pantry staples.
- Vegan and refined sugar-free.
- Perfect for meal prep and on-the-go snacking.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts. - How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to make these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet. - Can I add other flavors to these cookies?
Absolutely! Try adding a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even some chocolate chips for extra flavor. - What if I don’t have vanilla sugar?
You can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of regular sugar as a substitute. - Can I make these cookies without cocoa powder?
Yes, you can omit the cocoa powder for a plain oatmeal version or replace it with carob powder for a caffeine-free option.