πͺ Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies πͺ
What is it?
Applesauce oatmeal cookies are delicious and wholesome cookies that combine the goodness of oats and the natural sweetness of applesauce. These cookies are a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, as they often contain less sugar and fat. They are perfect for a quick snack or a treat that you can enjoy guilt-free.
History:
The history of oatmeal cookies dates back to ancient times, where oats were one of the earliest cultivated grains. Oat-based cookies have been a part of many cultures’ culinary traditions. However, the addition of applesauce to oatmeal cookies likely came about as a way to reduce the fat content and add natural sweetness. The exact origin of applesauce oatmeal cookies is unclear, but they have become a popular variation of oatmeal cookies in recent years.
Components:
To make applesauce oatmeal cookies, you’ll need the following components:
- 1 cup of rolled oats
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar (or sweetener of your choice)
- 1/4 cup of butter or coconut oil (for a healthier option)
- 1 egg (or egg substitute for a vegan version)
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- Optional add-ins: raisins, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips for extra flavor
Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare these delightful cookies:
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Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter or coconut oil and brown sugar until it becomes smooth and creamy.
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Add the egg (or egg substitute) and mix until well combined.
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Stir in the unsweetened applesauce, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
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Gradually add the rolled oats and all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If you like, fold in any optional add-ins like raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips.
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Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
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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 time needed to prepare applesauce oatmeal cookies will vary slightly, but on average, it takes around 30-40 minutes from start to finish. This includes preparation, baking, and cooling time. It’s a relatively quick and easy recipe, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session or a wholesome snack option.
Enjoy your homemade applesauce oatmeal cookies! πͺππ
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for applesauce oatmeal cookies:
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie, Approximate):
- Calories: 80-100 kcal
- Total Fat: 2-4 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
- Cholesterol: 5-10 mg (varies with recipe)
- Sodium: 40-60 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 13-15 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 5-8 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
Health Information:
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Lower in Fat: Applesauce oatmeal cookies typically use less fat compared to traditional cookies, making them a lower-calorie and lower-fat option.
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Oats Benefit: Oats are a key ingredient, and they provide dietary fiber, which can promote digestive health and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
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Applesauce Sweetness: Unsweetened applesauce adds natural sweetness without the need for excessive added sugars, making these cookies a healthier alternative.
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Reduced Sugar: Some recipes may use brown sugar or sweeteners in moderation, making these cookies a better choice for those watching their sugar intake.
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Whole Ingredients: With oats, whole-grain flour, and applesauce, these cookies contain wholesome ingredients that offer nutritional benefits.
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Fiber Content: The fiber content in oats and whole-grain flour can help keep you feeling full, potentially reducing overall calorie consumption.
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Portion Control: Since they are lower in calories, you can enjoy these cookies in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Remember that the exact nutritional values may vary depending on the specific recipe and any optional add-ins you choose to include. Always check the ingredients and nutritional information when following a specific recipe or considering dietary needs.