Lower My Cholesterol Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping heart health in mind, these “Lower My Cholesterol” oatmeal cookies are the perfect solution. Packed with heart-healthy ingredients like oats, avocado oil, and applesauce, they’re designed to be a better-for-you treat without compromising on taste. These cookies are rich in fiber, low in saturated fats, and contain no cholesterol. Ideal for anyone aiming to support their cardiovascular health, they make for a tasty and thoughtful addition to your snack options.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from the ingredients list to baking tips and frequently asked questions. Get ready to enjoy these wholesome, homemade oatmeal cookies!
Ingredients
For Lower My Cholesterol Oatmeal Cookies
- 2 large egg whites
- 3/4 cup avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2/3 cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the egg whites, avocado oil, and salt. Whisk them together until well-blended. Then add the granulated sugar and dark brown sugar to the mixture, and continue beating until smooth. The avocado oil helps keep these cookies moist while providing healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
Step 2: Add Flavorings and Fruits
To the wet ingredients, add the applesauce, raisins, vanilla extract, baking soda, and cinnamon. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. The applesauce not only adds natural sweetness but also provides moisture and reduces the need for extra fat, while cinnamon adds a touch of warmth and antioxidant benefits.
Step 3: Incorporate Oats
Next, stir in the old-fashioned oats. Oats are a fantastic source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which can help lower cholesterol by reducing the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream.
Step 4: Add the Flour
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in denser cookies. The flour will help bind the ingredients, giving the cookies their chewy texture.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least an hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle and enhancing the cookie’s texture during baking. If you’re short on time, a 30-minute chill can still make a noticeable difference.
Step 6: Preheat and Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (or 350°F if using a convection oven). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Once the dough is chilled, roll it into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for about 13 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a minute. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Tips for Perfect Lower Cholesterol Oatmeal Cookies
- Opt for Avocado Oil: Avocado oil is a great substitute for butter in this recipe, as it’s rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Coconut oil is another option, though it’s higher in saturated fat.
- Choose Whole-Grain Oats: Old-fashioned oats add a nice chewiness to the cookies and are more beneficial for lowering cholesterol than quick oats.
- Add Nuts for Extra Crunch: For those who enjoy a nutty texture, consider adding a handful of walnuts. Walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health.
- Customize with Dried Fruits: Swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a variation on flavor while keeping the cholesterol-lowering benefits.
- Make Smaller Cookies: If you prefer smaller portions, divide the dough into smaller balls, reduce the baking time by 2-3 minutes, and enjoy bite-sized cookies.
FAQs About Lower My Cholesterol Oatmeal Cookies
1. Can I replace the avocado oil with another type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute avocado oil with other heart-healthy oils like olive oil or canola oil. Coconut oil is also an option, though it has a higher saturated fat content. Just be mindful of flavor variations, as each oil has its own unique taste.
2. Why is applesauce used in this recipe?
Applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness, allowing us to reduce the amount of oil or butter needed. This substitution helps lower the fat content and adds a subtle fruity flavor without overpowering the taste.
3. How does oatmeal help in lowering cholesterol?
Oats are rich in soluble fiber, specifically beta-glucan, which helps reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber binds with cholesterol in the digestive system, helping to remove it from the body.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend, preferably one designed for baking. Make sure your oats are also certified gluten-free, as oats can sometimes be cross-contaminated with gluten-containing grains.
5. How should I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and thaw as needed.
6. Can I use a sugar substitute to make these cookies healthier?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute, like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener, to lower the sugar content. Just be mindful that the texture might change slightly, as sugar helps with the cookies’ structure and browning.
7. Are there other add-ins that would be good in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, seeds, or even dark chocolate chips (in moderation) to these cookies. Each option brings its own health benefits, from antioxidants to healthy fats.
These “Lower My Cholesterol” oatmeal cookies offer a healthier way to indulge in a treat while supporting heart health. With the right mix of ingredients, you get a delightful balance of chewy oats, juicy raisins, and warm cinnamon. Enjoy making these cookies as part of a heart-conscious lifestyle, or share them with loved ones for a wholesome, delicious snack!