These Oatmeal, Almond, and Cranberry Cookies are a delightful mix of chewy oats, crunchy almonds, and sweet-tart cranberries, all brought together with a hint of lemon zest. Perfect as a snack or a treat with your favorite beverage, these cookies are both flavorful and nutritious. They’re quick to make, requiring only basic ingredients, and are sure to be a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12 cookies
Ingredients
- Oatmeal: 1 cup (90 g)
- Almonds: 80 g, chopped
- Cranberries: 80 g, dried
- Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon
- Egg: 1 large
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted
- Vanillin (or Vanilla Extract): 1 teaspoon
Directions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (380°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine oatmeal, chopped almonds, cranberries, and lemon zest. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the Wet Ingredients
- Add the vanillin, egg, and melted butter to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms.
- Form the Cookies
- Using your hands or a cookie scoop, shape the dough into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie. Flatten slightly with your fingers or the back of a fork.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
- Cool
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before serving.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- Enjoy as a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
- Pack in a lunchbox for a midday energy boost.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed treat.
- Wrap them in cellophane for a thoughtful homemade gift.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats can make the cookies denser.
- Substitute almonds with your favorite nuts like walnuts or pecans for variation.
- Soak the cranberries in warm water for 5 minutes to make them plumper.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- Ensure the cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oatmeal: Provides dietary fiber, supporting digestion and heart health.
- Almonds: Packed with healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
- Cranberries: High in antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh burst of flavor and a dose of vitamin C.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No, unless gluten-free oats are used.
- Dairy-Free: No, contains butter (substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option).
Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, and sweet-tart flavors.
- Quick and easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile—great for breakfast, snacks, or as a dessert.
- Naturally nutritious with a boost of fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
- Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Conclusion
These Oatmeal, Almond, and Cranberry Cookies are a delightful blend of texture and flavor, offering a healthy twist on classic cookies. They’re perfect for enjoying any time of day, whether as a quick snack, a light dessert, or an energy boost on busy mornings. Easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Try them today for a treat that’s as nourishing as it is delicious!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? Yes, but the texture may be softer and less chewy.
- What can I use instead of almonds? Walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts are great alternatives.
- Can I substitute the cranberries? Yes, raisins, dried cherries, or chopped dates work well.
- How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? Chill the dough for 15 minutes before shaping and baking.
- Can I make these cookies vegan? Use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) and replace butter with coconut oil.
- How do I enhance the lemon flavor? Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice along with the zest.
- What if I don’t have vanillin or vanilla extract? Skip it, or substitute with almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Can I add chocolate chips? Absolutely! White or dark chocolate chips pair well with the cranberries.
- How long do these cookies stay fresh? They stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature and a week when refrigerated.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake in batches.
Enjoy these wholesome, flavorful cookies that are perfect for any occasion! 🍪✨