Honey Oatmeal Seed Crackers are a healthy and delicious snack that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the nutty flavors of seeds and oats. These crackers offer a delightful crunch with a soft inner texture, making them perfect for snacking on their own or paired with cheese, hummus, or your favorite spread. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious treat for yourself or something to share with friends, this recipe is a fantastic option that is easy to prepare using simple ingredients. Enjoy them as a guilt-free snack any time of the day!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Honey Oatmeal Seed Crackers:
- 100 g honey or jam: This serves as the primary sweetener and helps in binding the ingredients together, providing a deliciously sweet flavor.
- A pinch of salt: Enhances the sweetness of the honey and balances the flavors.
- 50 ml boiling water: Helps dissolve the honey and creates a syrupy mixture, allowing for better integration with the dry ingredients.
- 20 g oil (about 2 tablespoons): Provides moisture and aids in the overall texture of the crackers. You can use olive oil, coconut oil, or vegetable oil depending on your preference.
- 80 g old-fashioned oatmeal: Gives the base of the crackers a hearty texture and is a great source of fiber.
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour or quick oats: This optional addition can help achieve a softer, cookie-like texture. Depending on your preference, you can use regular flour or more oats.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda or 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This is necessary for a slight rise, helping create a light and airy texture.
- 150 g mixed seeds/nuts: A combination that adds crunch and flavor. For this recipe, use 100 g pumpkin seeds and 50 g sesame seeds. Feel free to substitute with sunflower seeds, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or any other nuts you prefer.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- Dissolve the Honey: In a small bowl, combine 100 g of honey (or jam) with 50 ml of boiling water. Stir well until the honey is fully dissolved, creating a sweet and syrupy mixture that will blend seamlessly with the dry ingredients.
- Add the Oil: Once the honey has dissolved, add 20 g (about 2 tablespoons) of your chosen oil to the mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Season with Salt: Add a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. This small addition enhances the overall flavor profile of the crackers, balancing out the sweetness from the honey.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- Prepare the Oatmeal and Flour: In a large mixing bowl, add 80 g of old-fashioned oatmeal. If you prefer a different texture, you can also mix in quick oats or plain flour. A heartier cracker can be achieved by using all oats, while incorporating flour results in a softer texture.
- Add the Baking Soda: Mix 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda into the dry ingredients, or use 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. This will contribute to a lighter texture.
- Incorporate the Seeds and Nuts: Add 150 g of your choice of seeds or nuts to the dry mixture. Recommended options are 100 g of pumpkin seeds and 50 g of sesame seeds, but you can easily customize this with sunflower seeds or any nuts you prefer. The seeds not only add crunch but also elevate the nutritional value of the crackers.
Step 3: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Mix the Dough: Pour the honey-oil mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should feel slightly sticky yet manageable. If you find it too dry, gradually add more water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Let the Dough Rest: Allow the dough to rest for about 5 minutes. This will help the oats absorb moisture, which is crucial for achieving the right texture in your final product.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
- Prepare the Baking Pan: Line a 20×30 cm baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. This will help prevent the dough from sticking and make it easier to remove the crackers once baked.
- Spread the Dough: Evenly spread the dough into the prepared baking pan using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Aim for a thin, even layer, as thinner dough will yield crispier crackers.
- Bake at Two Different Temperatures:
- For Soft Cookies: Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C (340°F) for about 20 minutes to achieve soft, chewy cookies with a moist texture.
- For Crunchy Crackers: If you prefer a crunchier texture, lower the oven temperature to 120°C (250°F) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This slow baking process ensures the crackers become crispy without burning.
- Cool and Cut: After baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow the crackers to cool for 5-10 minutes. Once cooled, cut them into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife or pizza cutter for easy serving.
Cooking Tips
- Honey or Jam: While honey provides a distinct flavor, feel free to use jam for an alternative sweetness and new taste profile.
- Oats: Ensure you are using old-fashioned oats or quick oats for the best texture. Avoid instant oats, as they may not provide the same crunch.
- Texture Preference: To achieve a softer, more cookie-like texture, include 2-3 tablespoons of flour. For crunchier crackers, omit the flour and use solely oats.
- Add Flavor Variations: Consider adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or herbs like rosemary for a unique flavor twist. You can also incorporate grated cheese to create savory versions of the crackers.
Variations
- Herb and Cheese Crackers: Add a tablespoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary along with grated cheese to the mixture for savory crackers.
- Sweet Cranberry Oatmeal Crackers: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and a touch of extra sweetness.
- Chocolate Chip Crackers: For a sweet treat, fold in dark chocolate chips or chunks into the dough before baking.
Nutritional Benefits
These Honey Oatmeal Seed Crackers are not only delicious but also provide numerous health benefits:
- Oats: A great source of fiber, oats help maintain digestive health and provide lasting energy.
- Seeds: Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, seeds contribute to overall heart health and provide a good protein source.
- Honey: Natural sweetener that may offer antioxidants and has antibacterial properties.
FAQs
Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?
Yes! You can replace honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or any other liquid sweetener. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preference.
How can I make these crackers gluten-free?
To make gluten-free crackers, use gluten-free oats and substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend or additional oats.
Can I store these crackers?
Yes! Store the cooled crackers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for about a week, or you can freeze them for up to a month.
Can I add spices for added flavor?
Absolutely! Spices such as cinnamon, cumin, or chili powder can be added to the dry ingredients for a flavor boost.
What can I serve these crackers with?
These crackers pair beautifully with cheese, dips like hummus or guacamole, or even as a topping on soup.
Conclusion
These Honey Oatmeal Seed Crackers are an excellent snack that combines simplicity, health benefits, and flexibility. With easy-to-follow steps and the ability to customize ingredients, you can make these crackers a staple in your kitchen. Whether enjoyed alone or used as a base for a delicious spread, they’ll surely be a hit. Try this recipe today, and enjoy homemade, wholesome snacks at your fingertips!