These Oatmeal Cookies with Carrots, Nuts, and Seeds combine wholesome ingredients to create a guilt-free treat packed with flavor and nutrition. These cookies are chewy, slightly sweet, and full of texture, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a quick energy boost. The combination of oats, carrots, nuts, and seeds offers a balance of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a nutritious addition to your baking repertoire. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful cookies!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 150g (5.3 oz) oatmeal
- 1 tbsp sunflower seeds
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 50g (1.7 oz) walnuts, chopped
- Cinnamon, to taste
- Nutmeg, to taste
Wet Ingredients:
- 50g (1.7 oz) raisins
- 150g (5.3 oz) carrots, grated
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 1–2 tbsp honey (adjust for sweetness)
- 1 egg
For Decoration:
- Pumpkin seeds
Optional Add-Ins:
- Chocolate chips
- Chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries
- A pinch of ground ginger for added warmth
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Proper preheating ensures even baking for your cookies.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
- Oatmeal
- Sunflower seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped walnuts
- A dash of cinnamon and nutmeg
Stir the mixture thoroughly to distribute the spices and ensure the oats and nuts are evenly coated. The cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth of flavor to the cookies.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the wet ingredients together:
- Egg: Whisk it until frothy.
- Add the melted butter and whisk again.
- Stir in the honey, adjusting the amount based on your desired level of sweetness.
- Add the raisins, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
For extra moisture and sweetness, soak the raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the mix. This step makes the raisins plump and juicy, enhancing the texture of the cookies.
Step 4: Add the Carrots
Fold in the grated carrots to the wet mixture. The carrots add natural sweetness and moisture to the dough, ensuring the cookies stay soft and tender. Be sure to use finely grated carrots for even distribution.
Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until the ingredients are fully combined and a cohesive dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies dense.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and shape it into cookies. Place each cookie onto the prepared baking tray, leaving enough space between them to allow for slight spreading during baking. Press a few pumpkin seeds onto the top of each cookie for decoration.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as the cookies can become dry if left in the oven too long. If you prefer softer cookies, reduce the baking time slightly.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. This step allows the cookies to firm up while retaining their chewy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk or your favorite plant-based alternative for a satisfying snack.
- Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a balanced breakfast.
- Pack them into lunchboxes as a nutritious and portable snack.
- Crumble them over ice cream or yogurt for a crunchy topping.
Cooking Tips
- Customize sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey based on your preference. For a less sweet version, use only one tablespoon of honey.
- Add variety: Mix in chopped dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for additional bursts of sweetness.
- Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for a spiced twist.
- Make it vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg and use a plant-based butter alternative. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Texture preferences: Use rolled oats for chewier cookies or quick oats for a softer texture.
- Prevent sticking: Always line your baking tray with parchment paper for easy removal.
Nutritional Information
Key Benefits:
- Fiber-rich: Oats and carrots are excellent sources of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
- Vitamin boost: Carrots provide a good dose of beta-carotene (Vitamin A) and antioxidants.
- Healthy fats: Nuts and seeds contribute omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients.
- Natural sweetness: The combination of honey and raisins reduces the need for refined sugars.
- Protein-packed: The egg, nuts, and seeds provide a healthy protein boost.
These cookies strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition, making them a smart choice for health-conscious bakers.
Storage
- At room temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the refrigerator: Extend their shelf life by storing them in the fridge for up to 7 days. Let the cookies come to room temperature before enjoying.
- In the freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat briefly in the oven or microwave.
FAQs
Can I substitute the nuts?
Yes, feel free to use pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of walnuts. You can also omit the nuts entirely if you prefer nut-free cookies.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar works well as a substitute for honey, making the recipe suitable for vegans.
How do I make the cookies gluten-free?
Replace the oatmeal with certified gluten-free oats to make these cookies gluten-free.
Can I use a different seed mix?
Absolutely! Try flaxseeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds for a unique flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These Oatmeal Cookies with Carrots, Nuts, and Seeds are not just a treat; they’re a wholesome snack packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or a lunchbox addition, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body. With endless customization options, this recipe is a versatile favorite that’s easy to make and enjoy!