These German oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that combines wholesome ingredients into a delicious and satisfying snack. With no flour or white sugar, these cookies are a great alternative for those looking for a healthier option without compromising on taste. The combination of oats, almonds, and cranberries, along with a hint of lemon zest, creates a wonderfully flavorful cookie that’s perfect for any time of the day.

Preparation Time:

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

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup oatmeal
• 80 g (about 1/2 cup) almonds, chopped
• 80 g (about 1/2 cup) dried cranberries, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanillin (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Chop the almonds and dried cranberries into smaller pieces if they are not already chopped.
3. Mix Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the oatmeal, chopped almonds, chopped cranberries, and lemon zest.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, and vanillin (or vanilla extract) until well combined.
5. Form the Cookies:
   • Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly mixed.
6. Scoop and Shape:
   • Using a spoon or cookie scoop, place spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten them slightly with the back of the spoon to form cookie shapes.
7. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
8. Cool:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Tea or Coffee: Enjoy these cookies with your favorite tea or coffee for a perfect snack break.
• As a Dessert: Serve as a light and healthy dessert option after a meal.
• With Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a nutritious and satisfying treat.

Cooking Tips:

• Chop Ingredients: Make sure the almonds and cranberries are chopped into similar-sized pieces for even texture in the cookies.
• Consistent Sizes: Shape the cookies uniformly to ensure even baking.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake to prevent over-browning.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Oats: A good source of fiber, which helps with digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
• Almonds: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins.
• Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins.
• Lemon Zest: Adds a fresh and tangy flavor while providing vitamin C.

Dietary Information:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure that your oatmeal is certified gluten-free if needed.
• No White Sugar: This recipe uses natural ingredients without refined sugar.
• Vegetarian: Yes

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Healthy: No flour or white sugar makes these cookies a healthier choice.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and quick preparation time.
• Delicious: A delightful blend of oats, nuts, and fruit with a hint of lemon zest.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?
   • Yes, you can use walnuts, pecans, or any nut of your choice.
2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   • Dried cranberries work best for this recipe, but you can use fresh cranberries if you chop them finely and adjust the sweetness.
3. What if I don’t have vanillin?
   • You can substitute with vanilla extract or omit it if necessary.
4. Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?
   • Yes, coconut oil can be used as a substitute for melted butter.
5. How can I make these cookies sweeter?
   • You can add a small amount of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter cookie.
6. Are these cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
   • Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.
7. Can I add other mix-ins like chocolate chips?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips or other dried fruits to customize your cookies.
8. How should I store leftover cookies?
   • Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
9. Can I make these cookies vegan?
   • To make them vegan, use a flax egg or chia egg as a substitute for the egg.
10. How can I make these cookies crunchier?
    • For crunchier cookies, slightly increase the baking time and ensure the edges are golden brown.

Enjoy baking these healthy and delicious German oatmeal cookies! They are sure to become a favorite treat in your home.