Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These zucchini oatmeal cookies are the perfect treat for satisfying your sweet cravings without the guilt. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, they're a fantastic option for a quick dessert, a healthy snack, or even a delightful addition to your breakfast. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the delightful combination of moist zucchini and hearty oatmeal in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking)
- 1 cup grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchini)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved for even sweetness.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking soda, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Incorporate Zucchini and Mix-ins: Gently fold in the grated zucchini, raisins (if using), and nuts (if using). The zucchini will add moisture and a subtle sweetness.
- Scoop and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. This allows for even baking and prevents spreading.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Keep a close eye on them towards the end, as ovens can vary.
- 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. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Oatmeal Cookies:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Grate the zucchini finely: Smaller pieces will blend seamlessly into the cookies and won't be noticeable.
- Add your favorite mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with other add-ins like chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped apples. These homemade cooking variations are endless!
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: 6-8g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Protein: 3-4g
(Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
These healthy meals are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while incorporating wholesome ingredients. These easy recipes make delicious dishes that are perfect for any occasion. These best recipes are a must-try for anyone looking for a quick and healthy dessert option. Enjoy!