Oatmeal Cookies with Carrots, Nuts, and Seeds

These Oatmeal Cookies with Carrots, Nuts, and Seeds are a wholesome, flavorful treat packed with fiber and nutrients. The combination of oats, carrots, nuts, and seeds creates a chewy, slightly crunchy cookie that is naturally sweetened with honey and raisins. These cookies are perfect for a healthy snack, breakfast on the go, or a guilt-free dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 50g (1.7 oz) raisins
  • 150g (5.3 oz) oatmeal
  • 1 tbsp sunflower seeds
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Cinnamon (to taste)
  • Nutmeg (to taste)
  • 50g (1.7 oz) walnuts, chopped
  • 150g (5.3 oz) carrots, grated
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1-2 tbsp honey
  • 1 egg
  • Pumpkin seeds (for decoration)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, combine 150g oatmeal, 1 tbsp sunflower seeds, 1 tbsp sesame seeds, 50g chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Prepare the wet ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk 1 egg. Add 3 tbsp melted butter, 1-2 tbsp honey (depending on desired sweetness), and the 50g raisins. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add the carrots:
    • Fold in the 150g grated carrots into the wet mixture.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined and a dough forms.
  6. Shape the cookies:
    • Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and shape them into cookies. Place them on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each cookie. Press a few pumpkin seeds on top of each cookie for decoration.
  7. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
  8. Cool and serve:
    • Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Enjoy with a glass of cold milk or your favorite plant-based alternative.
  • Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
  • Serve with yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthy breakfast option.
  • Pack them in lunchboxes as a nutritious treat.
  • Crumble over ice cream or Greek yogurt for added texture.

Cooking Tips:

  • If you prefer softer cookies, reduce the baking time slightly. For crispier cookies, bake a little longer.
  • You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave for a vegan option.
  • Use rolled oats for a chewier texture, or quick oats for a softer texture.
  • Add chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence.
  • Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the dough to make them plump and juicy.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Rich in fiber: Oats and carrots provide dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
  • Good source of vitamins: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene (Vitamin A) and antioxidants.
  • Healthy fats: Sunflower, sesame, and pumpkin seeds add healthy fats and essential nutrients.
  • Natural sweetness: These cookies are naturally sweetened with honey and raisins, reducing the need for added sugar.
  • Protein boost: The egg, nuts, and seeds provide a healthy dose of protein.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) instead of a regular egg.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats.
  • Nut-Free Option: Substitute walnuts with additional seeds if you have a nut allergy.
  • High in fiber: Ideal for those looking to add more fiber to their diet.

Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie, Approximate):

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 3g

Storage:

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Healthy and filling: Packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and seeds.
  • Naturally sweetened: Minimal added sugars, thanks to raisins and honey.
  • Great texture: The combination of chewy oats, crunchy nuts, and soft carrots makes these cookies irresistible.
  • Customizable: You can switch up the seeds, nuts, or add-ins based on your preferences.
  • Quick to make: Ready in under 40 minutes, these cookies are perfect for a fast and healthy treat.

Conclusion:

These Oatmeal Cookies with Carrots, Nuts, and Seeds are a nutritious and delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while getting a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a healthy breakfast, or something to pair with your coffee, these cookies are an excellent choice. Their versatility, combined with wholesome ingredients, makes them a guilt-free treat you’ll want to bake regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I substitute the raisins with another dried fruit?
    • Yes! Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or apricots work well as substitutes.
  2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
    • Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
  3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
    • Yes, you can freeze the dough in portions and bake directly from frozen. Just add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
  4. Can I make these cookies vegan?
    • Yes, use plant-based butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) as a substitute for the egg.
  5. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
    • Make sure the butter is melted but not too hot, and chill the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking to prevent excessive spreading.