These Crispy Oatmeal Puffs are a unique and tasty snack, perfect for a light treat or a crispy addition to soups and salads. Made with a few simple ingredients, they bake up into airy, crispy bites that can be stored long-term in an airtight container. Whether you enjoy them on their own or as a crunchy topping, these puffs are sure to satisfy.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 20-25 puffs (depending on size)
Ingredients
- Water: 170g (approx. 2/3 cup)
- Salt: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon
- Butter: 75g (1/3 cup)
- Instant Oatmeal: 90g (almost 1 cup)
- Eggs: 2 (105g without shells)
- Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for a lighter texture)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small pot, combine water, salt, and butter. Heat over low heat until the butter melts completely.
- Add the instant oatmeal and stir continuously, cooking over low heat until the mixture forms a thick dough. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Add Eggs:
- Once the dough has cooled slightly, add the eggs gradually, mixing well after each addition until the dough is smooth.
- If using baking powder, add it now and mix well. The dough should be thick and pipeable.
- Pipe the Puffs:
- Preheat the oven to 180-190°C (350-375°F) for 10 minutes.
- Using a cake syringe or piping bag fitted with a 7-8mm tip, pipe small mounds of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Wet your fingers with water to smooth down any peaks if needed.
- Bake:
- Bake the puffs at 180-190°C for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 150°C (300°F) and continue baking for 25-40 minutes, or until they are dry and crispy.
- Check the puffs; if they are not fully dry inside, bake for an additional 10-20 minutes at 130-150°C (265-300°F).
- Cool and Store:
- Allow the puffs to cool completely. If fully dry, store them in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Snack on Their Own: Enjoy these crispy puffs as a light snack.
- With Soup: Use as a topping for creamy or hearty soups.
- In Salads: Add to salads for an extra crunch.
- With Dips: Serve with hummus, yogurt dips, or your favorite spreads.
- As a Garnish: Use as a crunchy garnish on stews or casseroles.
Cooking Tips
- Gradual Egg Addition: Add eggs slowly to achieve a smooth, consistent dough.
- Adjust Salt to Taste: Start with 1/4 teaspoon, and increase to 1/2 if you prefer a saltier flavor.
- Oven Temperature: Adjust based on your oven’s accuracy; keep an eye on the puffs to avoid overbaking.
- Check for Dryness: Ensure the puffs are fully dry before storing to maintain crispness.
- Store in Airtight Container: This prevents moisture from getting in, helping them stay crispy for months.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oatmeal: High in fiber, contributing to digestive health and satiety.
- Eggs: Provide protein and essential vitamins for a balanced snack.
- Low in Added Fat: Minimal butter makes these puffs a relatively light option.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly
- Contains Dairy and Eggs
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 40
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Storage Tips
- Airtight Container: Store completely dry puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 months.
- Keep Dry: Ensure they are fully cooled and dry before storing to maintain their crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Long Shelf Life: These puffs can be stored for months without losing their crispiness.
- Simple Ingredients: Easy to make with pantry staples.
- Great for Snacking: Perfect as a light, healthy snack or as an addition to various dishes.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust salt or add spices like paprika or garlic powder for different flavors.
- Crunchy and Satisfying: Deliciously crispy texture makes them hard to resist!
Conclusion
These Crispy Oatmeal Puffs are a light, crunchy snack that’s easy to make and store. With a long shelf life and versatile use, they’re perfect to have on hand for snacking, garnishing, or adding a unique crunch to meals. Simple ingredients, great flavor, and satisfying texture make them a treat you’ll want to try!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use rolled oats instead of instant oatmeal?
Rolled oats may work but will yield a slightly different texture; grind them for a finer consistency. - Can I add spices or herbs?
Absolutely! Try adding paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs for extra flavor. - What if I don’t have a piping bag?
You can spoon small mounds onto the baking sheet, though the shape may vary. - How do I know if they are fully dry?
Check that they are firm and hollow-sounding when tapped; you can break one open to test. - Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine works as a substitute, but flavor and texture might differ slightly.