Healthier Oatmeal Cookies
Creating healthier cookies can be quite a challenge, and this particular recipe was no exception. We embarked on numerous rounds of testing to ensure that the final result would be a genuinely delicious COOKIE, not just a granola bar masquerading as one.Now, what sets this cookie apart as "healthy"? We managed to reduce the usual amounts of butter and sugar by incorporating applesauce into the mix. This natural ingredient imparts sweetness and moisture to the dough without the need for extra fat. The star of these cookies is primarily oats, and we can't overlook the health benefits they offer. Additionally, we included just 1/4 cup of whole-wheat flour, avoiding the use of heavily processed starches. However, we believe that a cookie deserves a touch of indulgence, so we included high-quality dark chocolate chunks and tangy dried cherries to create the perfect balance of flavors. Remember, everything in moderation!By finding the right balance of ingredients, we've crafted a cookie that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also incorporates some healthier elements. It's a treat you can enjoy without feeling guilty, striking the perfect harmony between indulgence and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1 c. quick-cooking oats
- 1/2 c. old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 c. whole-wheat flour
- 3/4 tsp. baking soda
- 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 c. (1/2 stick) butter, softened
- 1/3 c. granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 c. applesauce
- 1/2 c. dried cherries
- 1/3 c. chopped dark chocolate, plus more for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large bowl using a hand mixer, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, vanilla, and applesauce until combined. Mix in flour mixture until just combined. Fold in dried cherries and chocolate.
- Using a large cooking scoop, arrange balls of dough on prepared baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly. Top with more chocolate.
- Bake until golden around edges, about 12 minutes.
Nutrition
Calories: 191kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 26mgSodium: 130mgPotassium: 154mgFiber: 3gSugar: 12gCalcium: 22mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!