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

Preheat Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mash Banana: 2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth.

Mix Wet Ingredients: 3. Add the maple syrup and egg (or egg replacement) to the mashed banana. Mix well until fully combined.

Add Dry Ingredients: 4. Stir in the oat flakes and cinnamon. Mix until well incorporated.

Add Chocolate: 5. Fold in the chopped sugar-free chocolate.

Form Cookies: 6. 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.

Bake: 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Cool and Serve: 8. 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!