These Oatmeal Apple Cookies are a delightful blend of chewy oats and tender apples, enhanced with a hint of orange zest. Perfect for a quick snack or a light dessert, they combine the wholesome goodness of oatmeal with the natural sweetness of apples. With their soft texture and subtle flavor enhancements, these cookies are both comforting and satisfying. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- Oatmeal: 110g (1 1/4 cups)
- Butter, melted: 60g (1/4 cup)
- Egg: 1
- Sugar: 50g (1/4 cup)
- Apple: 1, grated or finely chopped
- Flour: 50g (1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- Orange zest: From 1 orange
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Raisins or nuts (optional): 1 tablespoon
- Orange juice: 4-5 tablespoons (for mixing with apples)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, cream together the melted butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and egg until smooth.
- Stir in the oatmeal until fully combined.
- Add the flour, baking powder, and orange zest, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Grate or finely chop the apple.
- Combine the apple with raisins or nuts (if using) and mix with 4-5 tablespoons of orange juice.
- Combine and Bake:
- Gently fold the apple mixture into the oatmeal batter until evenly distributed.
- Form the dough into small round cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, or until the cookies turn golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Tea or Coffee: Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- With Yogurt: Enjoy with a dollop of yogurt for a healthier dessert.
- Fruit Pairing: Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack or light dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust Oats: If using quick oats, slightly reduce the quantity to maintain the dough’s consistency.
- Extra Flavor: A pinch of cinnamon in the apple filling adds warmth and complements the apple flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to swap out raisins or nuts for dried fruits like cranberries or add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Fiber-Rich: Oats provide dietary fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you full longer.
- Vitamin Boost: Apples are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
- Citrus Goodness: Orange zest adds not only flavor but also a dose of vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- Contains: Dairy, eggs, gluten
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats and flour substitutes like almond or gluten-free flour.
- Vegan Option: Replace butter with plant-based alternatives and egg with a flax or chia egg.
Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 60mg
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Wholesome Ingredients: The combination of oats, apples, and orange zest makes these cookies both nutritious and flavorful.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the add-ins to suit your taste preferences, making them versatile for different occasions.
Conclusion:
These Oatmeal Apple Cookies are a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, offering a wholesome and delicious treat. Their simplicity in preparation and the wholesome ingredients make them a go-to recipe for quick baking. The warm, comforting flavors of apple and orange zest combined with the chewy oats create a delightful snack or dessert. Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven or as a sweet addition to your daily routine!
FAQs:
- Can I use quick oats instead of regular oatmeal?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Adjust the quantity if necessary. - Can I substitute the apple with another fruit?
Absolutely! Pears or berries are great alternatives, but you may need to adjust the baking time. - Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?
Yes, by using plant-based butter and a flax or chia egg, these can be made vegan. - Can I use brown sugar instead of regular sugar?
Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper flavor, giving the cookies a slight caramel undertone. - What can I use instead of orange zest?
Lemon zest works well and adds a different citrusy note to the cookies. - How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for about 10 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape. - Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, whole wheat or almond flour can be used, but it may affect the texture slightly. - What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage. - Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Yes, chocolate chips are a great addition for an extra indulgent treat. - How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free flour.