If you’re looking for a guilt-free treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’ve come to the right place! These oatmeal cookies are packed with wholesome ingredients, are free of refined flour and white sugar, and are incredibly easy to make. Plus, they’re loaded with natural sweetness and flavor from dates and cranberries. Perfect for a quick snack, breakfast on the go, or even dessert, these cookies are a game-changer.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Healthy Ingredients: No refined flour or white sugar means you can indulge without the usual guilt.
- Easy to Make: A simple recipe with only a few steps.
- Customizable: You can swap ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Nutritious and Delicious: Oatmeal provides fiber, dates and cranberries add natural sweetness, and walnuts contribute heart-healthy fats.
Let’s dive into the recipe and create these delectable cookies!
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these oatmeal cookies:
- 1 cup oatmeal (90g): Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture.
- 50g cranberries: Dried cranberries bring a tangy sweetness.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Adds a burst of fresh citrus flavor.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (30g): For a crunchy, nutty element.
- 1/4 cup dates, chopped (35g): Natural sweetness with a caramel-like taste.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the cookies together.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (30g): For richness and flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
If you want to experiment, consider these options:
- Dark chocolate chips: Add a touch of indulgence.
- Cinnamon or nutmeg: For a warm spice note.
- Chia seeds or flaxseeds: Boost the fiber and omega-3s.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to whip up your batch of guilt-free oatmeal cookies:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before starting, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal, cranberries, lemon zest, and chopped walnuts. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg until well beaten. Add the melted butter and mix until smooth. Stir in the chopped dates, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well. The mixture should come together into a sticky dough. If it’s too dry, you can add a teaspoon or two of water or milk to help bind it.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball slightly to form a cookie shape and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they’re golden brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Once cooled, these cookies are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, ensure your dried fruits and nuts are fresh.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies can dry out if baked too long. Keep an eye on them in the oven.
- Customize Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter cookies, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients.
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: ~90
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 4.5g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1.5g
Why These Cookies Are Perfect for Daily Snacking
These oatmeal cookies are a healthier alternative to store-bought treats loaded with preservatives and refined sugars. The combination of oats, fruits, and nuts provides sustained energy, making them perfect for:
- Breakfast on the Go: Pair with a smoothie or coffee.
- Pre-Workout Snack: A quick energy boost.
- Healthy Dessert: Satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Variations to Try
- Tropical Twist: Replace cranberries with dried pineapple and add shredded coconut.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate ground cinnamon, ginger, or allspice.
- Nut-Free Version: Swap walnuts for sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Conclusion
These oatmeal cookies prove that you don’t need flour or white sugar to create something delicious and satisfying. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with natural flavors, they’re a treat you can feel good about enjoying every day. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and bake a batch of these guilt-free cookies today!
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