Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Start your day on a nutritious note with these delightful Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies. Perfectly chewy and naturally sweet, these cookies pack a punch of energy and flavor, making them an ideal breakfast option for busy mornings or a wholesome snack throughout the day. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Let’s dive into why these cookies are a must-try and how you can make them in your own kitchen!

Why Cooks Rave About It

These Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are not just a treat; they are a wholesome way to kickstart your day. With their chewy texture and a hint of sweetness, they provide a satisfying alternative to traditional sugary breakfast items. The combination of oats, eggs, and nut butter offers a hearty dose of fiber and protein, keeping you full and energized. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite add-ins, making each batch uniquely yours. It’s no wonder that food lovers everywhere are singing their praises!

What Goes In

To make these delightful cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce or 1 large ripe banana, mashed
• 1 cup (120ml) unsweetened almond butter
• 1 cup (80ml) pure maple syrup
• 2 cups (200g) quick oats
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1 to 1.5 cups (100-200g) add-ins (see note)

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a cookie that is not only delicious but also nourishing.

Must-Have Equipment

Before you get started, gather the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Baking sheet – For placing the cookies while baking.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Spatula – To mix and scoop the cookie dough.

Having these items ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

The Method for Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Follow these simple steps to create your Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana), almond butter, and pure maple syrup until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the quick oats, ground cinnamon (if using), and sea salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is well combined. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 5: Add Your Favorite Mix-ins

Now comes the fun part! Fold in your choice of add-ins. This could include chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruits, or seeds. Feel free to get creative!

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, 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. Enjoy warm or store for later!

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies, consider these substitutions:

• For nut allergies, substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter.
• Replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar for sweetness.
• Use coconut oil instead of almond butter for a different flavor profile.
• For a vegan option, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).

These substitutions allow you to cater the recipe to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Using old oats – Fresh oats yield better texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the dough – This can lead to tough cookies.
• Skipping the cooling step – Allowing cookies to cool helps them firm up.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Precision is key for the right consistency.

By being mindful of these tips, your cookies will be a hit every time!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to make them ahead of time:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.
• Storage: Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well! Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and enjoy them within three months.

Having these cookies ready to go makes for a hassle-free breakfast or snack!

Common Qs About Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of quick oats?

While you can use steel-cut oats, they will require a longer baking time and may result in a chewier texture. Quick oats are recommended for best results.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Simply use certified gluten-free oats and ensure that your almond butter and any other add-ins are also gluten-free.

Are these cookies suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These cookies are a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen while providing them with a healthy breakfast option they will love.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mix. It may alter the texture slightly, so adjust the wet ingredients as needed to maintain the right consistency.

One Pan, More Ideas

If you love the simplicity of these Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies, you’ll enjoy these other one-pan recipes:

• Healthy Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
• One-Pan Veggie Frittata
• Easy Healthy Trail Mix Bars
• Sheet Pan Breakfast Burritos

Each of these recipes offers the same convenience and deliciousness with minimal cleanup!

Time to Try It

With their delightful flavor, chewy texture, and wholesome ingredients, these Healthy Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are a must-add to your breakfast rotation. Whether you’re enjoying them on the go or paired with a glass of milk, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings and fuel your day. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and create a batch of these nutritious cookies that your whole family will love!

Once you take the first bite, you’ll understand why these cookies are becoming a favorite among home bakers everywhere. Happy baking!