Ingredients:

• 230 g Rolled Oats (2 1/2 cups): Oats are a great source of dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
• 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder (6 g): Helps the cookies to rise slightly, making them light and fluffy.
• 1/2 Teaspoon Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples and cranberries.
• 2 Medium Apples: Apples add natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies. They are also high in fiber and vitamins.
• 3 Eggs (Separate the Yolks from Whites): Egg whites provide protein and structure, while yolks add richness.
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and aroma of the cookies.
• 40 g Dried Cranberries (1/4 cup): Adds a sweet and tart taste, along with a chewy texture.
• A Pinch of Salt: Balances the flavors.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Peel and grate the apples using a grater or food processor. You can keep the peel on for added fiber and nutrients if you prefer.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to ensure that the baking powder and cinnamon are evenly distributed throughout the oats.

3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

• Separate the egg yolks from the whites. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. This step adds fluffiness to the cookies, giving them a light and airy texture.
• In another bowl, whisk the egg yolks with vanilla extract until well combined. Add the grated apples and mix well.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Pour the apple mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until everything is well combined.
• Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the mixture. This step helps to maintain the light texture of the cookies.
• Add the dried cranberries and gently mix until evenly distributed.

5. Shape the Cookies:

• Using a spoon or your hands, scoop small portions of the mixture and shape them into balls or mounds. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.

6. Bake the Cookies:

• Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden and the cookies are set. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking, as they can dry out quickly.

7. Cool and Serve:

• Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. These cookies are best enjoyed warm but can be stored for later as well.

Tips:

• Apple Varieties: Use sweet apples like Gala or Fuji for a natural sweetness, or Granny Smith apples for a more tart flavor.
• Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies by adding nuts (like walnuts or almonds), seeds (like chia or flax seeds), or other dried fruits (like raisins or dates) for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can add a bit of honey, maple syrup, or a natural sweetener like stevia.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep them fresh.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in a low oven for a few minutes to enjoy them warm.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Oats: Rich in fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Oats also provide slow-release energy, making them a great option for sustained energy throughout the day.
• Apples: High in vitamins (like vitamin C), antioxidants, and fiber, apples contribute to digestive health and provide a natural sweetness to the cookies.
• Eggs: Packed with high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and choline.
• Dried Cranberries: Contain antioxidants and add a pop of flavor and color to the cookies.

Conclusion:

These diet cookies with oats and apples are a perfect snack or breakfast option for those who want to eat healthily without compromising on taste. They are quick and easy to make, requiring only a few wholesome ingredients. The combination of oats, apples, and cranberries creates a deliciously moist and chewy cookie that’s naturally sweet and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a healthy treat for yourself, your family, or a snack to take on the go, these cookies are an excellent choice. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful and guilt-free treat!