Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies are a delicious, wholesome treat that balances natural sweetness with hearty oats and nutty flavor. Perfect for a quick snack or a light dessert, they come together easily and require just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats (provides structure and chewiness)
- 1 cup sweetened applesauce (room temperature preferred)
- 1 cup peanut butter (well-stirred; any nut or seed butter works)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth and flavor)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine sweetened applesauce, peanut butter, oats, and cinnamon. Stir until a cohesive dough forms that holds when pressed.
- Step 3: Form dough into 12 equal-sized balls using hands or a scoop. Place on baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly.
- Step 4: Bake 12-15 minutes until edges are firm and lightly golden. Centers may appear soft but will firm as they cool.
- Step 5: Cool cookies completely on the baking sheet before transferring to preserve texture.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
- Add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- If you prefer less chewiness, pulse the oats slightly in a food processor before mixing.
Storage
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave or let come to room temperature before serving to restore softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead?
Yes, unsweetened applesauce can be used, but the cookies will be less sweet. You might want to add a small amount of honey or maple syrup if you prefer more sweetness.
Can I substitute old-fashioned oats with quick oats?
Quick oats may change the texture, making the cookies softer and less chewy. Old-fashioned oats are best for the ideal texture, but quick oats can work if that’s what you have on hand.
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Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These low sugar applesauce oatmeal cookies are a healthy and delicious treat made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Naturally sweetened with sweetened applesauce and flavored with cinnamon, these cookies are perfect for a guilt-free snack or dessert. Featuring a chewy texture from old-fashioned oats and creamy peanut butter, they bake quickly and are easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 cup sweetened applesauce (room temperature preferred)
- 1 cup peanut butter (well-stirred; any nut or seed butter works)
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sweetened applesauce, peanut butter, old-fashioned oats, and ground cinnamon. Stir thoroughly until a cohesive dough forms that holds together when pressed.
- Shape Cookies: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the dough into 12 equal-sized balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Gently flatten each ball slightly to shape the cookies.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are firm and lightly golden. The centers may still appear soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack or container. This step helps preserve their chewy texture.
Notes
- Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture; quick oats may result in a softer cookie.
- Room temperature applesauce blends better with the other ingredients for a smooth dough.
- Any nut or seed butter can be substituted for peanut butter to vary the flavor or for allergies.
- Ensure cookies are completely cooled before storing to maintain their chewy consistency.
- If you prefer less sweetness, use unsweetened applesauce and add a sweetener of your choice to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: low sugar cookies, applesauce oatmeal cookies, healthy cookies, peanut butter cookies, easy baking, low fat dessert, healthy snack
