Before diving into delicious healthy oatmeal cookies, let’s consider some delightful pairings to elevate your snack experience. Think about a warm cup of chai tea, which complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly. For a more robust option, a dark roast coffee brings out the nutty flavors.
If you want to add a refreshing twist, a glass of almond milk works wonders and highlights the cookie’s hearty essence. For dessert lovers, a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt drizzled with honey can accompany the cookies splendidly, offering a creamy contrast.
With those ideas swirling in your mind, let’s immerse ourselves in the delicious world of healthy oatmeal cookies!
I’ve always loved the idea of a treat that tastes good and doesn’t make me feel like I’ve just run a marathon after indulging. That’s where healthy oatmeal cookies come into play. These cookies are not your average sweet treats. They are packed with nutrition and flavor, making you feel good about every bite — plus they are super easy to whip up. You won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen either!
Picture this: it’s a cozy afternoon, and you’re in your kitchen, the air filled with the delightful aroma of baking oats and cinnamon. Each cookie is golden brown, crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside. Yum! But that’s not all. These cookies come loaded with benefits that can serve as a perfect snack or a delicious dessert. So, let’s dive deep into what makes healthy oatmeal cookies a must-try.
What are Healthy Oatmeal Cookies?
Healthy oatmeal cookies combine wholesome ingredients into an irresistible snack. Instead of relying on refined sugars and heavy fats, these cookies use ingredients like oats, nut butter, or applesauce to create a sweet yet nutritious option.
They are gluten-free and can easily cater to various dietary needs. Trust me; the texture and taste won’t disappoint. Plus, these cookies often include spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, providing warmth and richness you can savor.
You will also like the following Dessert recipes!
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine biting into one. The first thing you’ll notice is the delightful chewiness paired with a slight crunch. The oats provide a nutty flavor that dances with sweetness from ingredients like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
Whether you add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits, each flavor enhances the delightful profile. It’s the perfect balance between indulgence and healthiness, ensuring that every bite leaves you satisfied but not weighed down.
Why You’ll Love This?
There’s so much to love about healthy oatmeal cookies:
Nutritious: They’re filled with oats, which are great for heart health and digestion.
Versatile: You can mix in nuts, seeds, fruits, or even dark chocolate chips.
Easy to Prepare: The steps are simple, making baking accessible, even for busy people.
Meal Preppable: You can enjoy them fresh or store them for later, maintaining their deliciousness.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon aluminum-free baking powder
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup certified gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of sea salt (about 1/8 teaspoon)
- 1/2 cup finely milled gluten-free oat flour
- 1/4 teaspoon warm ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 flax egg (or regular egg, if preferred)
- 3 tablespoons melted virgin coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or light brown sugar as an alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Before diving into mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure even baking, resulting in cookies that are golden and delicious. As the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Flax Egg
If you’re using a flax egg (which is a great vegan alternative), combine 1 tablespoon of grounded flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Give it a stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it resembles a traditional egg’s consistency.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: rolled oats, coconut, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, and sea salt. Whisk them together until evenly blended.
Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, applesauce, coconut sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared flax egg. Whisk them until smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well integrated.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Now it’s time to stir things together. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Fold the mixture carefully until everything is just combined. Avoid over-mixing; you want a thick batter.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of the dough onto a lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. You want them to be soft in the middle, so don’t worry if they seem a little undercooked; they will firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Take them out, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This step is vital. Cooling them allows the cookies to set and prevents them from falling apart.
Tips on Making Healthy Oatmeal Cookies
Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor hinges on your ingredients, especially the oats and sweeteners.
Don’t Skimp on Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg can drastically improve flavor. Experiment!
Add Mix-Ins Wisely: Dried fruits or nuts can add texture, but consider their sugar content.
Beware of Overmixing: Stir just until combined to keep cookies light and chewy.
Taste the Dough: Before baking, tasting the dough gives you an idea of sweetness and flavor balance.
Nutrition Information
On average, one cookie has approximately:
Calories: 100
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Carbs: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and optional additions like chocolate chips.
How Do You Store Healthy Oatmeal Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week. If you want to hold on to their freshness longer, consider freezing them. Place cookies in a single layer between wax paper in a freezer-safe container, separating layers. They can stay good for up to three months. When the craving strikes, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Healthy Oatmeal Cookies?
Nut Butters: You can swap coconut oil for almond or peanut butter for extra creaminess and flavor.
Sweeteners: Honey or agave can replace maple syrup; just adjust the quantity.
Oats: If oats aren’t your thing, quinoa flakes are a gluten-free alternative.
Coconut Flour: Instead of oat flour, coconut flour can introduce a new flavor, but use a smaller amount as it absorbs moisture.
Alternative Binders: Instead of an egg, try applesauce or mashed banana for added sweetness and moisture.
Healthy Oatmeal Cookies
Equipment
- Oven
- Bowl
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon aluminum-free baking powder
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup certified gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of sea salt about 1/8 teaspoon
- 1/2 cup finely milled gluten-free oat flour
- 1/4 teaspoon warm ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 flax egg or regular egg, if preferred
- 3 tablespoons melted virgin coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or light brown sugar as an alternative
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Before diving into mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure even baking, resulting in cookies that are golden and delicious. As the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Flax Egg
- If you’re using a flax egg (which is a great vegan alternative), combine 1 tablespoon of grounded flaxseeds with 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Give it a stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when it resembles a traditional egg’s consistency.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: rolled oats, coconut, oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, and sea salt. Whisk them together until evenly blended.
Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, applesauce, coconut sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared flax egg. Whisk them until smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well integrated.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
- Now it’s time to stir things together. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Fold the mixture carefully until everything is just combined. Avoid over-mixing; you want a thick batter.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of the dough onto a lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
- Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. You want them to be soft in the middle, so don’t worry if they seem a little undercooked; they will firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
- Take them out, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This step is vital. Cooling them allows the cookies to set and prevents them from falling apart.
Notes
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor hinges on your ingredients, especially the oats and sweeteners.
- Don’t Skimp on Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg can drastically improve flavor. Experiment!
- Add Mix-Ins Wisely: Dried fruits or nuts can add texture, but consider their sugar content.
- Beware of Overmixing: Stir just until combined to keep cookies light and chewy.
- Taste the Dough: Before baking, tasting the dough gives you an idea of sweetness and flavor balance.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Absolutely! Rolled oats are perfect for this recipe. They provide more texture and flavor.
Q2: Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! By using certified gluten-free oats and flour, these cookies are suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Q3: Can I add protein powder?
Sure! You can replace a portion of the oat flour with protein powder. It might slightly alter the texture, so monitor the moisture level of your mix.
Q4: How do I make these cookies vegan?
Simply use a flax or chia egg instead of a regular egg, and ensure all other ingredients, like sugar and chocolate chips, are plant-based.
Q5: Can I freeze the dough?
Definitely! You can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a bag. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple more minutes to the baking time.
Q6: What can I substitute for coconut sugar?
Brown sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia can work well too. Adjust according to your taste preference.
Conclusion
Healthy oatmeal cookies bridge the gap between indulgence and nourishment. They are not just snacks but are joyfully filled with nutrients, making them a viable option for any time of day. As you embrace this cookie, remember, every bite is a small victory over unhealthy temptations.
So, next time you’re craving something sweet, whip up a batch of these cookies. I assure you, you’ll be pleasantly surprised not only by the taste but also by how good you feel about enjoying them. Happy baking!
