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
- 110 g oatmeal (1 1/4 cups)
- 60 g butter, melted (1/4 cup)
- 1 egg
- 50 g sugar (1/4 cup)
- 1 apple, grated or finely chopped
- 50 g flour (1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 1 tablespoon raisins or nuts (or to taste)
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Cream together 60 g melted butter, 50 g sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar, and 1 egg in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Stir in 110 g oatmeal until well combined.
- Add 50 g flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and the zest of 1 orange. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Dice or grate 1 apple.
- Combine the apple with 1 tablespoon raisins or nuts, and 4-5 tablespoons of orange juice. Mix well.
- Combine and Bake:
- Gently fold the apple mixture into the oatmeal batter until evenly distributed.
- Form the mixture 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 approximately 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these cookies warm with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra treat.
- Pair with fresh fruit for a balanced snack or light dessert.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust Oat Flakes: Depending on the type of oat flakes you use, adjust the quantity to achieve the desired consistency of the dough.
- Enhance Flavor: Add a dash of cinnamon to the apple filling for extra warmth and flavor.
- Customize Ingredients: Substitute nuts and raisins with your favorite dried fruits, or add fresh or frozen berries for a burst of freshness.
Nutritional Benefits
- Oatmeal provides dietary fiber and helps in maintaining healthy digestion.
- Apples add a natural sweetness and are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants.
- The use of orange zest adds a fresh, citrusy flavor and extra vitamin C.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy and eggs.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and ensuring oats are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Piece)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 60mg
Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- These cookies are quick to prepare and bake, making them a perfect choice for busy days.
- The combination of oats, apples, and orange zest delivers a deliciously unique flavor profile.
- They’re a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, with the added benefit of fruit and whole grains.
- Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, making them versatile for various tastes.
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, quick oats can be used, but they may result in a slightly different texture.
- Can I substitute the apple with another fruit?
- Yes, you can use other fruits like pears or berries, but adjust the baking time if needed.
- Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?
- To make them vegan, use a plant-based butter substitute and flax or chia eggs.
- Can I use brown sugar instead of regular sugar?
- Yes, brown sugar can be used for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
- What can I use instead of orange zest?
- Lemon zest can be used as a substitute for a different citrus flavor.
- How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
- Make sure the dough is well-chilled before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.
- Can I use a different type of flour?
- Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or almond flour as an alternative.
- What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
- Yes, chocolate chips can be added for an extra indulgent treat.
- How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free flour and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.