Apple-filled Oatmeal Cookies

🍏🍪 Apple-filled Oatmeal Cookies 🍪🍏

What is it?
Apple-filled oatmeal cookies are delicious, chewy cookies that combine the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet and tart flavors of apples. These cookies are a delightful treat that pairs the comforting taste of oatmeal with the freshness of apples.

History:
While the precise origin of apple-filled oatmeal cookies is unclear, oatmeal cookies themselves have been enjoyed for centuries. Oats have a long history of cultivation, dating back to ancient civilizations. As for apple-filled variations, they likely emerged as a creative way to incorporate apples into baked goods, which have always been a popular choice due to their natural sweetness and texture.

Components:
To make apple-filled oatmeal cookies, you’ll need the following components:

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups finely chopped apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Fuji apples)
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing these delicious cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix them together and set aside.

3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the sugar-butter mixture and beat until well combined.

5. Gradually incorporate the dry oat and flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined.

6. Gently fold in the finely chopped apples and raisins or dried cranberries, if desired.

7. Drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.

9. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare apple-filled oatmeal cookies is approximately 30-35 minutes, including prep and baking time. It’s a relatively quick and easy recipe that yields delicious, homemade cookies with a delightful blend of flavors.

Enjoy your homemade apple-filled oatmeal cookies! 🍏🍪😋

Here are the nutrition facts and health information for apple-filled oatmeal cookies:

Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, approximate):

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Total Fat: 5-7g
• Saturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 15-20mg
• Sodium: 50-70mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
• Sugars: 7-10g
• Protein: 1-2g

Health Information:

1. Fiber: Oatmeal cookies contain dietary fiber from oats, which can promote digestive health and help maintain steady blood sugar levels.

2. Whole Grains: Oats are a whole grain, providing complex carbohydrates that offer sustained energy.

3. Apples: Apples are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as vitamin C and dietary fiber, which can support overall health.

4. Moderation: While these cookies can be a tasty treat, they are also calorie-dense and may contain added sugars. It’s essential to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

5. Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to manage calorie and sugar intake.

6. Nutrient Variability: The exact nutrition content can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used, so always check labels or calculate based on your specific preparation.

7. Customization: You can make these cookies healthier by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, and adding more apples or dried fruits for sweetness.

Remember that the nutritional values provided are approximate and can vary based on the exact recipe and portion size. It’s a good practice to refer to the nutrition labels of specific ingredients you use for more accurate information.