Oatmeal Apple Cookies with a Hint of Orange Zest
Ingredients:
- Oatmeal: 110g (1 1/4 cups)
- Butter, melted: 60g (1/4 cup)
- Egg: 1
- Sugar: 50g (1/4 cup)
- Apple: 1, grated or finely chopped
- Flour: 50g (1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon)
- Orange zest: From 1 orange
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Raisins or nuts (optional): 1 tablespoon
- Orange juice: 4-5 tablespoons (for mixing with apples)
Directions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a bowl, cream together the melted butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and egg until smooth.
- Stir in the oatmeal until fully combined.
- Add the flour, baking powder, and orange zest, mixing until a smooth batter forms.
- Prepare the Apple Filling:
- Grate or finely chop the apple.
- Combine the apple with raisins or nuts (if using) and mix with 4-5 tablespoons of orange juice.
- Combine and Bake:
- Gently fold the apple mixture into the oatmeal batter until evenly distributed.
- Form the dough into small round cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, or until the cookies turn golden brown.
- Prepare the Dough:
Serving Suggestions:
- With Tea or Coffee: Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
- With Yogurt: Enjoy with a dollop of yogurt for a healthier dessert.
- Fruit Pairing: Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack or light dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust Oats: If using quick oats, slightly reduce the quantity to maintain the dough’s consistency.
- Extra Flavor: A pinch of cinnamon in the apple filling adds warmth and complements the apple flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to swap out raisins or nuts for dried fruits like cranberries or add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Fiber-Rich: Oats provide dietary fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you full longer.
- Vitamin Boost: Apples are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health.
- Citrus Goodness: Orange zest adds not only flavor but also a dose of vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- Contains: Dairy, eggs, gluten
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats and flour substitutes like almond or gluten-free flour.
- Vegan Option: Replace butter with plant-based alternatives and egg with a flax or chia egg.
Nutritional Facts (Per Cookie):
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 60mg
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.