Looking for a tasty treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? Try these Low-Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies! They are soft, chewy, and packed with wholesome ingredients that satisfy your sweet tooth without packing on excess sugar. Made with nutritious oats and applesauce, these cookies are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a guilt-free dessert. You can feel good about enjoying these delightful cookies any time of the day!
Ingredients List
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a gluten-free version)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup natural peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins or dark chocolate chips (optional)
Substitutions: If you prefer a nut-free cookie, replace peanut butter with sun butter or omit it altogether. You can use mashed bananas instead of applesauce for a different flavor.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Enjoy these cookies in under 30 minutes, making them a quick and healthy choice for your snacking needs!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup (if using), egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. If using, fold in the raisins or dark chocolate chips at this stage.
Step 5: Scoop the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly as they will not spread much during baking.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; this is fine as they will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for later!
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (1 cookie, makes about 12 cookies) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 50mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Protein | 3g |
These cookies are not only lower in sugar but packed with fiber and protein, making them a healthier snack option.
Healthy Variations & Substitutes
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly cookie.
- Added Nutrients: Stir in chia seeds or flax seeds for extra nutrients and a boost of fiber.
- Different Flavors: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a different twist on flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these cookies with:
- A glass of almond milk or your favorite non-dairy beverage for a delicious pairing.
- Fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing side.
- A dollop of yogurt for a creamy accompaniment to balance the textures.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Wet Ingredients Straight from the Fridge: Make sure all ingredients, especially the peanut butter, are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and avoid a dense texture.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
Storage & Prep Tips
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. If freezing, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
You can also prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 1 hour before baking for a fresher cookie experience!
Conclusion
These Low-Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect healthy treat to satisfy your cravings without compromising on flavor. They are simple to make, filled with good-for-you ingredients, and versatile enough for everyone to enjoy. Give this recipe a try today, and treat yourself to a deliciously wholesome snack!
FAQs
- Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can, rolled oats provide a better texture and chew. Instant oats may result in a softer cookie. - What if I don’t like oatmeal?
You can use other ingredients, such as blended nuts, or replace oats with more flour, but it will change the texture and flavor. - Can I add more sugar if desired?
Yes! Feel free to adjust sweetness based on your preference by increasing the honey or maple syrup.