🍪 Applesauce Raisin Cookies 🍪
What is it?
Applesauce raisin cookies are delicious, soft cookies that combine the natural sweetness of applesauce with the chewiness of raisins. These cookies are a delightful treat that offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures.
History:
The exact origin of applesauce raisin cookies is unclear, but cookies themselves have a long history dating back to ancient times. Applesauce has been used in baking for centuries due to its ability to add moisture and sweetness to recipes without the need for excessive sugar or fat. The combination of applesauce and raisins likely emerged as a way to enhance the flavor and texture of traditional oatmeal cookies.
Components:
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 cups raisins
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Steps to Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Stir in the applesauce until the dough is well mixed.
- Fold in the raisins and nuts (if using).
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies 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 applesauce raisin cookies is approximately 30-40 minutes, including preparation and baking time. This may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your cookies. Enjoy these delightful cookies as a snack or dessert with a glass of milk or a cup of tea! 🍪☕
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Applesauce Raisin Cookies:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate Values):
- Calories: 120-150
- Total Fat: 4-6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 15-20 mg
- Sodium: 70-100 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18-22 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 8-10 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
Health Information:
- These cookies are relatively low in calories compared to many other desserts, making them a reasonable treat when consumed in moderation.
- The use of unsweetened applesauce helps reduce the amount of added sugar needed in the recipe, making them a better choice for those looking to limit their sugar intake.
- Applesauce adds moisture to the cookies without the need for excessive amounts of butter or oil, which can help reduce the overall fat content.
- The inclusion of raisins provides natural sweetness and a source of dietary fiber.
- While these cookies can be a delicious and enjoyable snack, it’s still important to consume them as part of a balanced diet and not as a primary source of nutrition.
Remember that the specific nutritional content of your cookies may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes you use, so it’s a good idea to refer to the nutrition labels on specific product packages when available for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cookies in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet! 🍪🍏
