These German Apple Cookies are a delightful combination of sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and hearty oats, perfect for a cozy snack or a healthy dessert. The cookies are naturally sweetened with apples and agave syrup, making them a guilt-free treat that’s both delicious and nourishing. Easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients, these cookies are a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fall all year round.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients (makes about 12 cookies)
- 1 cup of oatmeal (100g)
- 50g of walnut kernels
- 2 apples
- 60ml of water
- Vanilla essence (to taste)
- Agave syrup (to taste)
Directions
- Prepare the Oatmeal:
- Add the oatmeal to a blender or food processor.
- Pulse until the oats have a coarse, slightly broken texture, similar to coarse flour.
- Chop the Walnuts:
- Finely chop the walnut kernels into small pieces using a knife.
- Set aside for later use.
- Prep the Apples:
- Peel and core the apples.
- Slice them thinly, setting aside most of the slices.
- Take two apple slices and blend them with 60ml of water to create a smooth applesauce.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the coarse oatmeal, chopped walnuts, sliced apples, applesauce, vanilla essence, and agave syrup.
- Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and holds together.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Line a baking tray with crumpled baking paper to prevent sticking.
- Take spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into round cookies on the tray.
- Flatten slightly to form small, thick discs.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Preheat your oven to 200ºC (390ºF).
- Bake the cookies for approximately 30 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
- Check regularly to ensure they don’t overbake.
- Enjoy the Delight:
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Glass of Milk: Pair the cookies with a glass of your favorite milk (dairy or plant-based) for a comforting snack.
- Top with Yogurt: Add a dollop of Greek or plant-based yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Drizzle with Honey: A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with Tea or Coffee: These cookies are perfect alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips
- Use Ripe Apples: Riper apples will provide more sweetness, reducing the need for extra sweeteners.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before baking, and adjust the amount of agave syrup according to your preference.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Since oven temperatures vary, start checking the cookies at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Fiber: Oats and apples provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health.
- Low in Sugar: The recipe uses natural sweeteners, making it a healthier option for those watching their sugar intake.
- Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, perfect for those following a vegan diet.
Dietary Information
- Vegan: No animal products are used in this recipe.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats if you have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.
- Refined Sugar-Free: Sweetened naturally with apples and agave syrup.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them if you have a nut allergy.
Nutritional Facts (per cookie)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal preparation.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with healthy ingredients, these cookies are both satisfying and nourishing.
- Naturally Sweetened: The natural sweetness of apples and a touch of agave syrup make these cookies delicious without the need for refined sugars.
- Versatile: Enjoy them as a breakfast treat, snack, or even a dessert with a scoop of ice cream.
Conclusion
These German Apple Cookies are a wholesome and delightful treat that’s perfect for any time of day. The combination of sweet apples, crunchy walnuts, and hearty oats creates a cookie that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or as a quick snack, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of nuts instead of walnuts? Yes, you can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts, depending on your preference.
- Is there an alternative to agave syrup? You can use honey, maple syrup, or any other liquid sweetener of your choice.
- Can I make these cookies without a blender? Yes, you can manually chop the oats with a knife for a coarse texture, though a blender or food processor will yield a more consistent result.
- What kind of apples work best for this recipe? Any apple variety can be used, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala will naturally sweeten the cookies more.
- Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg? Absolutely! A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg can add extra warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Are these cookies suitable for children? Yes, these cookies are a healthy and kid-friendly option due to their natural ingredients.
- How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the tray? Crumpling the baking paper helps prevent sticking, but you can also lightly grease the paper with oil.
- Can I add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries? Yes, adding dried fruits can give the cookies extra sweetness and texture.
- How do I reheat frozen cookies? Reheat them in a preheated oven at 180ºC (350ºF) for about 10 minutes or until warm.
- Can I serve these cookies with ice cream? Yes, serving them with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream makes for a delightful dessert.