Are you ready to indulge in a guilt-free treat that satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping your health goals in check? These Healthier Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are not just a delicious snack; they’re a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these chewy, nutty delights in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a post-workout snack, or a sweet treat for the kids, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Get ready to discover the secret to making cookies that are both satisfying and good for you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 18 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup natural peanut butter
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: chocolate chips or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the natural peanut butter and honey (or maple syrup). Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add the vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a cohesive dough forms. The mixture should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- If using optional chocolate chips or raisins, fold them gently into the cookie dough at this stage.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a fork, creating a classic crisscross pattern and helping the cookies bake evenly.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the healthiest option. This will enhance the flavor and keep the cookies wholesome.
- Sweetener Alternatives: If you prefer a different sweetness level, feel free to adjust the honey or maple syrup according to your taste. You can even experiment with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Mix-Ins Galore: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Toss in some dark chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts to elevate the flavor and texture of your cookies.
- Cookie Size Matters: For even baking, use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform sizes. This will help your cookies bake evenly and look more appealing.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking at the 10-minute mark. The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and prevents breakage.
- Storage Tips: To keep your cookies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to three months for a quick treat whenever you need one!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
