Craving a warm, comforting treat that's both delicious and guilt-free? Look no further! These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are the perfect answer. Forget those dry, bland oatmeal raisin cookies of your past; this recipe delivers soft, chewy perfection bursting with the classic flavor combination we all love, completely plant-based. It's a quick and easy recipe, perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful homemade gift. These cookies are also a great healthy meal option, packed with wholesome ingredients. Let's dive into this simple yet satisfying homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work well)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup raisins (or a mix of raisins and cranberries)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
Add wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, plant-based milk, oil, and vanilla extract. This simple step creates a smooth and flavorful base for your cookies.
Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Stir in raisins: Gently fold in the raisins. Don't be afraid to get your hands in there to ensure they're evenly distributed.
Scoop and bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these warm, chewy delights!
Tips for Perfect Vegan Oatmeal Raisin Cookies:
- Use good quality oats: The type of oats you use will affect the texture of your cookies. Rolled oats are best for this recipe.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops gluten and can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer sweeter cookies, feel free to add a little more brown sugar or granulated sugar.
- Add nuts: For extra texture and flavor, add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Variations:
- Spiced Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom for a warm, comforting twist.
- Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Stir in ½ cup vegan chocolate chips for a delightful combination of flavors.
- Coconut Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Add ½ cup shredded coconut for added texture and sweetness.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutritional calculator online and input your exact ingredients. Generally, expect these cookies to be a good source of fiber and complex carbohydrates.
These vegan oatmeal raisin cookies are a delightful treat that's surprisingly easy to make. They're perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings while enjoying a wholesome and delicious snack or dessert. So grab your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade cooking and the rewarding taste of a perfect, plant-based cookie.