Healthy Oatmeal Cookies

 Healthy Oatmeal Cookies are a great snack that combines wholesome ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruits with a touch of sweetness. These cookies are both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for a healthier dessert or snack!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup almond flour (or whole wheat flour)

1/4 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (or unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version)

1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option)

1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (or any dried fruit of choice)

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for a treat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir to combine.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil (or applesauce), maple syrup, vanilla extract, and egg (or flax egg).

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully combined. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

5. Add Mix-ins:

Fold in the raisins or dried cranberries, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips (if using).

6. Shape the Cookies:

Use a spoon or cookie scoop to form dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Gently flatten each dough ball with the back of the spoon to form cookie shapes.

7. Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) instead of a regular egg.

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Customization: Feel free to add shredded coconut, chia seeds, or flax seeds for extra nutrition.

No Sugar Option: For a sugar-free version, you can use mashed bananas or dates as a natural sweetener.

These Healthy Oatmeal Cookies are full of fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making them a perfect snack or dessert that you can feel good about eating!