Description
These Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies are a wholesome, naturally sweetened treat perfect for a healthy snack or dessert. Made with quick oats, applesauce, and maple syrup, these cookies are soft, chewy, and gently spiced with cinnamon and vanilla. They require no added sugar crystals, resulting in a tender texture that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cups Quick Oats
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Applesauce
- 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick oats, applesauce, and maple syrup. Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract to the mixture.
- Combine Thoroughly: Stir the ingredients with a rubber spatula until everything is well combined and forms a wet batter.
- Shape Cookies: Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking. Take 1 1/2 tablespoons of cookie dough, which should be moist but hold together when pressed gently. Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly oil a small square of parchment paper and place the oiled side onto the cookie dough ball. Using a flat tool like a jam jar lid, press and rotate to flatten the cookie into a round, even shape.
- Repair Cracks: If the edges of the cookies crack slightly, use your oiled fingertips to gently pat and reform a smooth round shape. Note that cookies will not spread or expand during baking; the current shape is final.
- Repeat Shaping: Continue shaping the remaining dough into cookies the same way until all dough is used, making about 9 cookies.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the center rack of the oven and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes. Baking for 15 minutes yields softer cookies, while 20 minutes produces drier, chewier cookies. These cookies do not become crunchy due to the absence of added crystal sugar.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet at room temperature for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack for an additional 20 minutes to cool completely.
- Serve: Enjoy the cookies plain, dust them with additional cinnamon, or drizzle with royal icing for a touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Use quick oats for the best texture; old-fashioned oats will make the cookies denser.
- Applesauce acts as a natural sweetener and binder, reducing the need for added fats and sugars.
- Maple syrup provides gentle sweetness and complements the cinnamon flavor.
- Cookies will not spread in the oven, so shape them exactly how you want the final cookie to appear.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider baking slightly longer but be mindful they can dry out.
- Royal icing adds a decorative touch and extra sweetness, but the cookies are delicious on their own.
