Finding the perfect cookie recipe that satisfies both your sweet tooth and your desire for wholesome ingredients can feel like an endless search. Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies are the answer! These cookies are not only delicious but also nutritious, making them ideal for kids’ snacks, lunchboxes, or a guilt-free treat after dinner. With their delightful blend of oats and applesauce, you’ll enjoy a chewy texture and natural sweetness without the excess sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with oats and applesauce, these cookies provide fiber and essential nutrients.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time.
- Versatile Flavor: Customize with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for added deliciousness.
- Kid-Friendly: These cookies are not only easy to make but also fun for kids to help with; they love mixing and shaping!
- Low Sugar Option: Enjoy a sweet treat without the guilt, thanks to the reduced sugar content.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the process of making these delicious cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is vital for combining ingredients thoroughly.
- Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes cleanup easier and prevents cookies from sticking to the pan.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup sweetened applesauce
- 1 cup peanut butter (or alternative nut or seed spread)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
How to Make Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients:
Add the old-fashioned oats, sweetened applesauce, peanut butter, and ground cinnamon.
Stir until everything is well mixed. The dough should be thick but manageable.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using a spoon or your hands:
Scoop out small portions of dough (about two tablespoons each).
Shape them into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten them slightly.
Step 4: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven:
Bake for about 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow cooling on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
These Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies make for an excellent snack option any time of day! Enjoy!
How to Serve Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies
Serving your Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies can be a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to present them that will impress your family and friends.
With a Glass of Milk
- Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic pairing that enhances their flavor.
Warm with Ice Cream
- Serve the cookies warm and top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Packed for Lunch
- These cookies make for a perfect, healthy lunchbox treat. They are easy to pack and taste great even on the go.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair your cookies with slices of fresh apple or banana to add some extra nutrition and flavor contrast.
How to Perfect Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies
To make your Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies even better, consider these tips for perfection:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh oats and applesauce provide better flavor and texture in your cookies.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter cookies, consider adding a little honey or maple syrup, but keep it low.
- Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are well combined for uniform texture throughout the batch.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on baking time; these cookies are best when they’re soft in the center.
Best Side Dishes for Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies
When serving Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies, consider these delightful side dishes to complement their flavors.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the cookie’s texture.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Nut Butter Dip: Serve some almond or peanut butter on the side for dipping, enhancing the nutty flavors.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers a nutritious option that pairs well with the cookies.
- Cheese Plate: Combine assorted cheeses with nuts and dried fruits for an elegant touch alongside your cookies.
- Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with fruits and seeds makes for an energizing side dish that complements dessert beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies can be easy, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality oats or applesauce can affect the taste. Always opt for fresh, organic ingredients when possible.
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a chewy texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin your cookies. Use proper measuring cups and spoons.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest enhances flavor and texture. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before baking.
- Baking on ungreased sheets: This could lead to sticking. Use parchment paper or lightly grease your baking sheets for easy removal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.
- Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
- They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm but not hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies that you may find helpful.
Can I use other types of nut butter?
You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed spread if you prefer a different flavor or need a nut-free option.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and ensure your nut butter is also free from cross-contamination.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding dark chocolate chips will enhance the sweetness without overpowering the recipe. Just mix in half a cup with the other ingredients.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts, dried fruit, or even spices like nutmeg. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings while keeping health in mind, this recipe is sure to become a favorite! Give it a try today!
Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies
Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect solution for those seeking a guilt-free treat that satisfies sweet cravings without compromising on nutrition. These chewy cookies blend wholesome ingredients like oats and applesauce, resulting in a delightful snack that kids and adults alike will love. With minimal sugar and a quick prep time, these cookies are ideal for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or an evening dessert. Plus, they can easily be customized with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Bake a batch today and enjoy a wholesome treat that’s both delicious and nutritious!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (approximately 8 cookies)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup sweetened applesauce
- 1 cup peanut butter (or alternative nut or seed spread)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, sweetened applesauce, peanut butter, and ground cinnamon. Stir until well mixed; the dough should be thick yet manageable.
- Scoop out about two tablespoons of dough for each cookie and shape them into balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, flattening them slightly.
- Bake for approximately 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie approx. 30g
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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