Introduction
Nutty, chewy, and naturally sweet, Healthy Oat Cookies with Dried Fruit & Nuts are the perfect snack when you crave something wholesome yet delicious. Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, these cookies are easy to make and great for breakfast on-the-go, afternoon pick-me-ups, or guilt-free treats anytime.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Oats have long been a staple ingredient in healthy baking, dating back to early European recipes for oatcakes in Scotland and Ireland. Incorporating nuts and dried fruits elevates this humble grain into something festive and nourishing. Recipes like these reflect a modern shift toward mindful eating, where taste and nutrition go hand in hand. They celebrate the idea that food can be both indulgent and beneficial for your well-being.
Ingredients Quantity
- 200g peanuts (7 oz)
- 60g hazelnuts (2 oz)
- 30g pumpkin seeds (1 oz)
- 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 30g dried cranberries (1 oz)
- 30g raisins (1 oz)
- 150g rolled oats (5 oz)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Additions
- Dark chocolate chips for a hint of sweetness
- Chia seeds or flaxseeds for extra fiber
- Shredded coconut for a tropical twist
- A dash of nutmeg or ginger for warm spice notes
- Swapped nuts: almonds, pecans, or cashews depending on preference
Tips for Success
- Use ripe bananas: They’re naturally sweeter and help bind the cookies without extra sugar.
- Chop nuts and fruits finely: This ensures even distribution and easier shaping.
- Adjust moisture: If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more mashed banana or a tablespoon of almond milk.
- Line your baking sheet: Parchment paper helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Roughly chop the peanuts and hazelnuts.
- In a large bowl, mix the oats, chopped nuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, dried cranberries, raisins, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring until fully mixed.
- Scoop tablespoons of the mixture onto the prepared baking tray, flattening slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
- Let cool on a wire rack before storing in an airtight container.
Description
These Healthy Oat Cookies are hearty and flavorful, offering satisfying crunch from nuts and seeds balanced with the chewy sweetness of dried fruits. The natural sweetness from bananas and honey means they feel like a treat while still keeping things nutritious and energizing.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per cookie, makes about 18)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 40mg
(Values vary slightly depending on size and added ingredients)
Conclusion
Healthy Oat Cookies with Dried Fruit & Nuts are an easy, customizable, and nutritious way to satisfy your cookie cravings without the guilt. They embody everything you want in a wholesome snack: energizing, full of good-for-you ingredients, and seriously tasty.
Recommendation
Pair these cookies with a cup of green tea, a smoothie, or simply enjoy a couple for a quick breakfast on the run. They’re also fantastic for road trips, hikes, or lunchbox treats for both kids and adults.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Healthy indulgence is about finding joy in foods that nourish both body and soul. These oat cookies prove that you don’t need refined sugars, heavy fats, or processed ingredients to enjoy something sweet and satisfying. Embrace mindful snacking — savor the texture, the natural flavors, and the energy these cookies bring to your day.