Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

Soft and chewy Healthy Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a lunchbox surprise. These cookies feature wholesome ingredients like applesauce, honey, and dark chocolate chips, making them not only delicious but also nutritious. With no added sugar, they are a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal effort, perfect for busy days.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with oats and fruits, these cookies provide essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile Options: Customize your cookies by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will enjoy the sweet taste of honey and chocolate chips while you appreciate the healthy aspects.
• Make Ahead: The dough can be chilled for up to three days, allowing you to bake them fresh whenever you want.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps to blend wet ingredients smoothly for a consistent cookie dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even baking of your cookies.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.

Ingredients

Soft and chewy healthy oatmeal cookies with applesauce, honey, raisins, and chocolate chips. No sugar! The best healthy cookie recipe.

For the Cookies

• 1 1/4 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup white whole wheat flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup well chopped raw walnuts or pecans

How to Make Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
1. Combine the oats, flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine:
1. Pour in the unsweetened applesauce.
2. Add melted butter, egg, pure vanilla extract, and honey.
3. Whisk until blended thoroughly.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
1. Stir gently just until combined; avoid over-mixing as the dough will be wet and sticky.

Step 4: Add Mix-ins

Fold in:
* Dark chocolate chips
* Raisins
* Chopped walnuts or pecans

Place the dough in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes or up to three days.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake:
1. Position a rack in the center of your oven.
2. Preheat it to 350 degrees F.
3. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Remove chilled dough from the refrigerator:
1. If stiff, let it sit out for about 5–10 minutes.
2. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough into 1 ½-inch balls on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Leave about an inch of space between each ball and gently flatten them to about ¾-inch thick.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven:
1. For approximately 9–10 minutes until golden and firm around edges.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked:
1. Place the baking sheet on a wire rack for two minutes.
2. Transfer cookies onto the rack to cool completely before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously healthy oatmeal cookies!

How to Serve Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

Serving healthy oatmeal cookies is easy and fun. These cookies can be enjoyed in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.

Pair with a Glass of Milk

• Dairy or Non-Dairy Options: Serve your cookies with a glass of cold milk—whether it’s whole, almond, or oat milk—to complement the flavors and add a creamy texture.

Enjoy with Fresh Fruit

• Fruits like Apples or Bananas: Slice up some fresh fruit to enjoy alongside your cookies. The natural sweetness and freshness balance nicely with the chewy texture of the cookies.

Create an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Add Ice Cream: Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a delicious dessert twist. Consider using vanilla or chocolate for classic flavors.

Serve at a Gathering

• Perfect for Parties: These cookies make an excellent addition to any gathering, whether it’s a birthday party or a casual get-together. They are easy to grab and enjoy.

Pack in Lunchboxes

• Great Snack Option: Include these cookies in school or work lunchboxes. They provide an energy boost while being healthier than traditional snacks.

Offer as a Breakfast Treat

• Morning Indulgence: Pair them with yogurt and berries for a satisfying breakfast option. They’re great for those busy mornings when you need something quick yet nutritious.

How to Perfect Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

To achieve the best healthy oatmeal cookies, follow these simple tips to enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Chilling Time: Letting the dough chill helps firm it up, resulting in thicker cookies that hold their shape during baking.
• Bold Use of Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh oats, spices, and especially honey for maximum flavor.
• Bold Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Bold Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; ovens can vary. Aim for golden edges but slightly soft centers.
• Bold Consider Add-ins: Experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruits or nuts to customize your healthy oatmeal cookies.
• Bold Store Properly: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

These healthy oatmeal cookies can be paired with delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a nutritious side.
2. Fruit Salad Medley: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to your cookie treats.
3. Nut Butter Dip: Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip alongside the cookies for added protein and richness.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers fiber and omega-3s while pairing well with the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Trail Mix Snack Bowl: Combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits in a bowl for a crunchy, healthy side option.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds complements the chewy texture of oatmeal cookies perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Healthy Oatmeal Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some simple details. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the chill time: Not refrigerating the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for the best texture.
• Incorrect measurements: Using too much flour or oats can alter the cookie’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups carefully for accuracy.
• Overbaking: Leaving cookies in the oven too long can make them hard. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they are golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
• Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on a sheet without parchment can lead to sticking. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can impact how well the ingredients combine. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Healthy Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm cookies in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Healthy Oatmeal Cookies healthy?

These cookies use wholesome ingredients like oats, whole wheat flour, and honey instead of refined sugar, making them a nutritious choice.

Can I customize my Healthy Oatmeal Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, seeds, or different dried fruits based on your preferences.

How do I ensure my Healthy Oatmeal Cookies stay chewy?

Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain their chewy texture. Also, avoid overbaking them.

Are there any substitutes for honey in this recipe?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for similar sweetness and texture.

Conclusion

These Healthy Oatmeal Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different fruits. Try this recipe today and enjoy a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth!

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