These Healthy Oat and Seed Cookies are the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients, natural sweetness, and a satisfying crunch. Packed with oats, seeds, nuts, and grated apples, these cookies make a great snack or breakfast option that will keep you energized throughout the day. With no added sugar beyond the natural sweetness from apples and raisins, these cookies are a guilt-free treat that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 125 g (1¼ cups) oat flakes: Provides fiber and helps keep you full.
- 50 g (⅓ cup) sunflower seeds: Adds a crunchy texture and healthy fats.
- 50 g (⅓ cup) pumpkin seeds: Offers a good source of protein and iron.
- 5 g (1 teaspoon) cinnamon: Adds warmth and flavor.
- 75 g (¾ cup) mixed nuts: Provides a nutty crunch and essential nutrients. Use a mix of your favorite nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
- 500 g (4 cups) grated apples: Adds natural sweetness and moisture. Use sweet varieties like Fuji or Gala for the best results.
- 100 g (½ cup) raisins: Contributes natural sweetness and chewiness.
- 40 ml (3 tablespoons) melted butter: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
Ingredient Notes:
- Oats: Rolled oats work best for texture, but quick oats can also be used if you prefer a finer consistency.
- Seeds and Nuts: Feel free to customize with other seeds (like chia or flax) and nuts to suit your taste.
- Apples: Grated apples provide moisture and sweetness, so there’s no need for added sugars.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oat flakes, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, and mixed nuts. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Add the grated apples and raisins to the bowl with the dry ingredients. The moisture from the apples will help bind everything together.
- Pour in the melted butter and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and coated. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet, and it should hold together when pressed.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into cookie-sized rounds, about 2 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
- Gently press each cookie down with your fingers or the back of a spoon to flatten slightly. This will help them bake evenly and achieve a crispy edge.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly crisp around the edges. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them in the last few minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a little soft when first out of the oven.
- Enjoy the cookies warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect snack, breakfast, or dessert that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Tips for Perfect Oat and Seed Cookies
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.
- Variations: Customize your cookies by adding other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots, or sprinkle in some chocolate chips for an extra treat. You can also add a tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds for an extra boost of omega-3s and fiber.
- Binders: If the mixture feels too dry and doesn’t hold together well, add a bit more grated apple or a splash of milk (dairy or non-dairy) to achieve the right consistency.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: Approximately 15 cookies
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
- Protein: 3 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Pair these cookies with a piece of fruit or a smoothie for a balanced, on-the-go breakfast.
- Snack: Enjoy as a mid-day snack with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying and energizing treat.
- Dessert: Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a wholesome dessert.
These Healthy Oat and Seed Cookies are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients that will keep you fueled throughout the day. With their deliciously chewy texture and naturally sweet flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Enjoy this nutritious treat knowing you’re indulging in a wholesome snack that’s good for you!
