If you’re looking for a guilt-free, nutritious treat that’s free of sugar, eggs, and refined ingredients, these apple cookies are the perfect option. With the natural sweetness of apples and raisins, combined with the fiber-rich benefits of semolina and flour, these cookies offer a wholesome alternative to traditional sugary desserts. This recipe is ideal for anyone on a diet or simply seeking healthier dessert options. Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe for cookies that taste great hot or cold.
Ingredients:
- 7 oz (200 g) grated apple (approximately 2 apples)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice
- 2.8 oz (80 g) durum wheat semolina
- 3.5 oz (100 g) raisins
- 1.8 oz (50 g) vegetable oil
- 4.6 oz (130 g) flour (or rice flour if preferred)
- 1 tsp (4 g) baking powder
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Mixture
Start by peeling two large apples. Grate them finely to release their natural juices, which will add moisture to the dough. Place the grated apples in a bowl and drizzle them with lemon juice. This not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the apples from browning.
Next, add the durum wheat semolina. Semolina is a fantastic ingredient as it absorbs the liquid from the apples, creating a slightly thickened texture that binds the cookie mixture. Soak the semolina in water for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to ensure it’s soft. Add the raisins to the mixture after washing them well. The raisins will contribute natural sweetness, reducing the need for any added sugar. Mix all the ingredients well, ensuring the raisins are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Once combined, cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate the mixture for at least an hour. This allows the semolina to fully absorb the juices and swell, resulting in a firmer, more cohesive mixture that’s easier to handle.
2. Prepare the Dough
After the apple mixture has rested, it’s time to prepare the dough. Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl to ensure it’s light and free from lumps. You can use regular flour or rice flour if you prefer a gluten-free option. Both types work well, but rice flour gives a slightly crumblier texture. Add the baking powder to the flour, which will help the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
Pour the vegetable oil into the flour mixture and stir everything together. You should aim for a dough that’s smooth and slightly elastic but not sticky. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a small amount of water or extra oil until it reaches the desired consistency.
3. Shape and Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature is ideal for baking these cookies as it allows them to cook evenly without becoming too dry.
Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the tray, ensuring they come out perfectly golden. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking tray. Using your fingers, flatten the dough evenly across the surface, ensuring it’s spread out in a thin layer for even cooking.
Use a knife or a cookie cutter to cut the dough into portions before baking. You can make traditional round cookies or experiment with shapes like squares or rectangles.
4. Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The cookies should turn a beautiful golden brown and have a slight crispness on the edges, while remaining soft in the center. If your oven runs hot, keep an eye on the cookies to prevent over-baking. The ideal cookie will have a soft, chewy texture with just a hint of crispness on the outside.
5. Enjoy Your Cookies
Once the cookies have baked, allow them to cool slightly before serving. They taste delicious both warm and cold, making them a versatile treat you can enjoy any time of day. The natural sweetness of the apples and raisins gives these cookies a wonderfully balanced flavor, while the semolina adds a delightful texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 140 kcal
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 8 g (from natural fruit)
- Protein: 2 g
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (makes approximately 10 cookies)
These apple cookies are perfect for anyone looking to reduce their sugar and egg intake without sacrificing flavor. With a soft, fragrant bite, they’re sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your diet goals in check.
