These incredibly simple apple oatmeal cookies require just two wholesome ingredients and are ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick healthy snack or breakfast on-the-go, these naturally sweet treats are loved by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 4 oz (113 g) applesauce (sweetened or unsweetened)
- 1 cup minus 1 tablespoon (77 g) rolled oats OR 1 cup (87 g) quick oats
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the applesauce and oats. Stir until thoroughly combined and all oats are moistened by the applesauce.
- Form the cookies: Using a 1.5-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the cookie dough and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Shape the dough: Using the palm of your hand, press down the dough balls to form round discs approximately 3/8 inch thick. Smooth and round the edges of the discs as needed. The cookies won’t spread during baking, so the shape you create is how they’ll turn out.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for approximately 13-15 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden brown. The rolled oats version may need more time. Bake the quick oats version for 13 minutes and the rolled oats version for 15 minutes.
- Check for doneness: If you’re unsure whether the cookies are ready, try lifting one cookie with a cookie spatula. It should come off completely from the sheet (meaning nothing should stick in the center).
- Storage: Uneaten cookies can be stored at room temperature for about 2 days or longer in the refrigerator or freezer.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 13-15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 12 cookies
Calories per cookie: ~35 calories
Why This Recipe Works
These flourless cookies are naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free oats, making them perfect for those with dietary restrictions. The applesauce provides natural sweetness and moisture while binding the oats together, eliminating the need for added sugars, oils, or eggs. Rich in fiber from the oats and containing the natural vitamins from apples, these cookies offer sustained energy without the sugar crash. They’re an excellent choice for meal prep, lunchboxes, or a guilt-free dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping nutrition in check.
