Are you craving a warm, comforting cookie but want to avoid the richness of butter? Then you've come to the right place! These No-Butter Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful and surprisingly easy recipe, perfect for a quick afternoon snack or a satisfying dessert. They're a healthier alternative to traditional oatmeal cookies, packed with flavor and made without any butter at all! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, walnuts or pecans work well)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This simple step lays the foundation for perfectly textured cookies.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. The applesauce acts as a fantastic butter substitute, adding moisture and sweetness without the saturated fat.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Add Mix-ins (Optional)
If using, stir in the raisins and chopped nuts. This is where you can get creative and personalize your cookies! Dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or seeds would also be delicious additions.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on them as ovens can vary.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, enjoy these delicious and healthy homemade cookies!
Tips and Variations:
- For chewier cookies: Use old-fashioned rolled oats and slightly underbake them.
- For crispier cookies: Use quick-cooking oats and bake them for a few extra minutes.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Make it chocolatey: Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
- Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories (depending on additions)
This recipe provides a delightful alternative to traditional buttery cookies, making it a great option for those seeking easy recipes, delicious dishes, and healthy meals. It’s perfect for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy!