Looking for a quick and healthy treat that’s both delicious and guilt-free? This healthy oatmeal cookie recipe is perfect for August, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. These cookies are not only sugar-free but also packed with nutritious ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruits. Best of all, they melt in your mouth and can be prepared in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a light dessert, these oatmeal cookies are sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
- Oats: 60 g (½ cup), ground in a mixer
- Baking Powder: 1.5 teaspoons
- Salt: A pinch
- Hazelnuts: 25 g (1/5 cup), chopped
- Walnuts: 25 g (1/5 cup), chopped
- Dried Cranberries: 40 g (¼ cup)
- Raisins: 30 g (1/5 cup), soaked in cold water for 15 minutes
- Olive Oil: 40 ml (2.5 tablespoons)
- Maple Syrup: 40 ml (2.5 tablespoons)
- Egg: 1
- Oats: 80 g (3/4 cup)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- Begin by grinding 60 g of oats in a mixer until you have a fine powder. This step gives the cookies a smoother texture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground oats with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Prep the Nuts and Dried Fruits:
- Chop the hazelnuts and walnuts into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Drain the soaked raisins and combine them with the chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and the remaining 80 g of whole oats. Mixing the fruits and nuts with the oats helps to evenly distribute them throughout the cookies.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, olive oil, and maple syrup until smooth. The olive oil adds moisture and richness to the cookies, while the maple syrup provides natural sweetness.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the egg mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well combined. Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the moisture. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in the cookies.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop small portions of the dough and form them into cookie shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Tip
- Nut Alternatives: If you have a preference for different nuts, feel free to substitute the hazelnuts and walnuts with almonds, pecans, or your favorite nuts. Just make sure to keep the measurements the same for the best results.
- Texture Tips: For a crunchier texture, you can toast the oats and nuts lightly before adding them to the recipe. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch to the cookies.
- Sweetener Options: If you prefer a different natural sweetener, agave syrup or honey can be used in place of maple syrup. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, oats are a great source of nutrients that help promote healthy digestion and keep you full longer. They also provide a good amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Nuts: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium, nuts add both flavor and nutrition to these cookies.
- Dried Fruits: Dried cranberries and raisins offer a natural sweetness while providing essential vitamins like A and C, as well as antioxidants.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This healthy oatmeal cookie recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of oats, nuts, and dried fruits creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cookies are soft, chewy, and melt in your mouth, making them an ideal snack for any time of day. Plus, they’re made without any added sugar, so you can indulge without the guilt. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or as a quick afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, this oatmeal cookie recipe is a must-try. With no added sugar and a host of nutritious ingredients, these cookies offer a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on health. Perfect for August, these cookies are quick to make, melt in your mouth, and can be enjoyed in just one minute. Give this recipe a try and see how easy and tasty healthy eating can be!