Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Cherries

These Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Cherries are a delightful and healthy treat. Made with a ripe banana, maple syrup, and oat flakes, these cookies are both nutritious and delicious. The addition of sugar-free chocolate and cherries makes them extra special and perfect for any time of the day.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1-2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 egg (or alternative egg replacement)
  • 120 g (4.2 oz) oat flakes
  • Cinnamon to taste
  • 50 g (1.7 oz) sugar-free chocolate, chopped
  • Cherries for decorating cookies

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Mash Banana:
    • In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
    • Add the maple syrup and egg (or egg replacement) to the mashed banana. Mix well until fully combined.
  4. Add Dry Ingredients:
    • Stir in the oat flakes and cinnamon. Mix until well incorporated.
  5. Add Chocolate:
    • Fold in the chopped sugar-free chocolate.
  6. Form Cookies:
    • Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon. Decorate each cookie with cherries.
  7. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  8. Cool and Serve:
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy these cookies with a glass of almond milk or your favorite tea.
  • Serve as a healthy snack or a light dessert.

Cooking Tips

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
  • If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can add a bit more maple syrup to the mixture.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in Fiber: Oat flakes provide a good source of dietary fiber.
  • Low in Sugar: Using a ripe banana and sugar-free chocolate keeps the sugar content low.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Cherries add vitamins and antioxidants.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-Free: Ensure that your oat flakes are certified gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
  • Vegan Option: Use an egg replacement to make these cookies vegan.

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthy: Made with wholesome ingredients and low in sugar.
  • Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal ingredients.
  • Delicious: The combination of chocolate and cherries is irresistible.

Conclusion

These Oatmeal Cookies with Chocolate and Cherries are a perfect blend of health and taste. Easy to make and delightful to eat, they are sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or any time you crave something sweet and nutritious!