Benefits and Advantages of low calorie oatmeal cookies
- Ease of preparation: Low calorie oatmeal cookies are easy and fast to make, requiring minimal ingredients and simple baking techniques. This makes them ideal for busy individuals who want a quick, wholesome snack without hassle.
- Health benefits: These cookies are rich in fiber from whole oats, aiding digestion and promoting fullness. Their low sugar content supports weight management and better blood sugar control. Using natural ingredients helps maintain a heart-healthy and balanced diet.
- Versatility: The recipe is flexible enough to accommodate different dietary needs such as veganism, gluten-free, or low-calorie diets. You can customize it with alternative ingredients without sacrificing taste or texture.
- Distinctive flavor: The combination of oats with warm cinnamon and naturally sweet raisins or honey creates a comforting, satisfying flavor that stands apart from traditional cookies, making it a favorite wholesome treat.
Jump To
- 1. Benefits and Advantages of low calorie oatmeal cookies
- 2. Essential Ingredients for low calorie oatmeal cookies
- 3. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your low calorie oatmeal cookies
- 4. How to Prepare the Perfect low calorie oatmeal cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
- 5. Mastering low calorie oatmeal cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations
- 6. How to Store low calorie oatmeal cookies: Best Practices
- 7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About low calorie oatmeal cookies
- 8. low calorie oatmeal cookies
Essential Ingredients for low calorie oatmeal cookies
- 1 cup (100g) instant oats or quick-cooking oats – key fiber and texture contributor
- ¾ cup (90g) whole wheat flour or gluten-free oat flour – adds structure and nutrients
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder – helps achieve a light, soft cookie
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – warm spice flavor
- ⅛ to ½ teaspoon salt – balances flavors
- 2 tablespoons (28g) coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted and cooled – healthy fat for moisture and richness
- 1 large egg or flax/chia egg (for vegan) – binds ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – flavor enhancer
- ½ cup (120mL) honey or agave nectar (maple syrup as alternative) – natural sweetener
- ¼ cup (40g) raisins, hydrated – adds chewiness and natural sweetness
- Optional: ¼ cup dark chocolate chips and ¼ cup chopped raw walnuts or pecans – for added texture and flavor
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your low calorie oatmeal cookies
Protein and Main Component Alternatives:
- Swap traditional egg with flax egg or chia egg for vegan-friendly binding.
- Add plant-based protein powders such as pea or rice protein to boost nutrition.
- Use nut butters (almond or peanut) for extra richness and protein while controlling calories.
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications:
- Add grated zucchini or carrot to increase moisture and fiber subtly.
- Use almond or coconut extract instead of vanilla for flavor variation.
- Incorporate spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for warmth.
- Use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice as mild acidity boosters to improve texture and flavor, suitable for allergy-friendly baking.
These substitutions keep your oatmeal cookies low in calories while allowing you to tailor flavors and dietary compatibility.
For similar wholesome treats, try our Banana Cream Cheese Cupcakes or warm up with Lazy Day Oatmeal Cake.
Discover more about the benefits of oats at Healthy Oatmeal Cookie Recipes, learn why whole wheat flour is healthy at Benefits of Using Whole Wheat Flour, and master moist cookies with tips from Tips for Baking Soft and Chewy Cookies.
How to Prepare the Perfect low calorie oatmeal cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup instant oats, ¾ cup whole wheat or gluten-free flour, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, and ⅛ to ½ teaspoon salt for balanced flavor.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter, 1 large egg (or flax/chia egg for vegan), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir in ½ cup honey or agave nectar.
- Form the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. The dough should be slightly sticky. If too crumbly, add a tablespoon of almond milk or water.
- Add mix-ins: Fold in ¼ cup hydrated raisins (soaked in water for 5 minutes after microwaving) and optional ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for flavor and texture.
- Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading and ensure a chewy texture. The dough can be chilled up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Shape and bake: Drop 15 rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly to about ¾-inch thickness. Bake for 11-14 minutes, until edges turn golden and centers remain soft.
- Cool and serve: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy fresh or store for later.
Mastering low calorie oatmeal cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations
Pro cooking techniques: For even baking, rotate your baking sheet halfway through the baking time. Use an oven thermometer to maintain accurate temperature. Chilling the dough before baking helps maintain cookie shape and promotes chewiness.
Flavor variations: Add orange zest with dark chocolate chips for a bright depth or mix dried cranberries with chopped walnuts for seasonal delights. Introduce warm spices such as pumpkin spice, chai, or nutmeg for comforting notes.
Presentation tips: Finish cookies with a light dusting of powdered stevia or drizzle melted dark chocolate to add elegance. Serve with herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the flavors.
Make-ahead options: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate or freeze in portioned batches. Bake fresh cookies whenever desired, perfect for meal prepping or busy schedules without sacrificing freshness.
How to Store low calorie oatmeal cookies: Best Practices
- Refrigeration: Store baked cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This keeps cookies fresh and prevents spoilage.
- Freezing: For longer-term storage, freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They keep well for up to three months.
- Reheating: Warm cookies individually in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to regain softness and flavor.
- Meal prep considerations: Batch baking and storing cookies in portioned containers make for convenient grab-and-go snacks that retain their low calorie benefits all week.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About low calorie oatmeal cookies
What type of oats work best for low calorie oatmeal cookies?
For low calorie oatmeal cookies, using instant oats or quick oats is ideal. These oats are smaller and cook faster than old-fashioned rolled oats, resulting in a softer and chewier cookie texture. They absorb moisture quickly, helping the cookies stay moist without adding extra calories. However, you can also use old-fashioned oats if you prefer a heartier texture, but the cookies might be less soft.
Can I make low calorie oatmeal cookies without butter?
Yes, you can replace butter with healthier fat alternatives like coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce to lower calories and fat content. Coconut oil adds a subtle flavor and keeps cookies moist, while applesauce reduces fat and sugar but may change the texture slightly. Adjust baking times if needed, and avoid using too much substitute to prevent soggy cookies.
How can I keep low calorie oatmeal cookies soft and chewy instead of dry?
To keep cookies soft and chewy, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven when edges are set but centers still look slightly soft. Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 10 minutes allows residual heat to finish baking gently. Also, properly measuring oats and flour helps maintain moisture balance and texture.
Is it necessary to soak or hydrate raisins before adding them to oatmeal cookies?
Soaking raisins before adding them to cookies makes a noticeable difference. Hydrated raisins become plump and juicy, enhancing the overall moistness and flavor of the cookie. Simply soak them in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, then drain well before mixing into the dough to avoid adding extra moisture that could alter texture.
How long can I store low calorie oatmeal cookies, and how should I store them?
Store low calorie oatmeal cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness. If you want to keep them longer, freezing the cookies in a sealed bag or container for up to three months is a good option. Thaw at room temperature before serving to retain their soft texture.
low calorie oatmeal cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 15 cookies
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option, Vegan Option
Description
🍪 These Low Calorie Oatmeal Cookies with Banana and Raisins are soft, chewy, and made with wholesome ingredients for a healthy treat.
🥄 Perfect for health-conscious bakers, these cookies are free from refined sugars and adaptable for gluten-free and vegan diets.
Ingredients
– 1 cup (100g) instant oats or quick-cooking oats
– ¾ cup (90g) whole wheat flour or gluten-free oat flour
– 1½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
– ⅛ to ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons (28g) coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted and cooled
– 1 large egg or flax/chia egg (for vegan)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup (120mL) honey or agave nectar (maple syrup as alternative)
– ¼ cup (40g) raisins, hydrated
– Optional: ¼ cup dark chocolate chips and ¼ cup chopped raw walnuts or pecans
Instructions
1-Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2-Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup instant oats, ¾ cup whole wheat or gluten-free flour, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, and ⅛ to ½ teaspoon salt for balanced flavor.
3-Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or unsalted butter, 1 large egg (or flax/chia egg for vegan), and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir in ½ cup honey or agave nectar.
4-Form the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. The dough should be slightly sticky. If too crumbly, add a tablespoon of almond milk or water.
5-Add mix-ins: Fold in ¼ cup hydrated raisins (soaked in water for 5 minutes after microwaving) and optional ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts for flavor and texture.
6-Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading and ensure a chewy texture. The dough can be chilled up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
7-Shape and bake: Drop 15 rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly to about ¾-inch thickness. Bake for 11-14 minutes, until edges turn golden and centers remain soft.
8-Cool and serve: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy fresh or store for later.
Notes
⚖️ Use a kitchen scale for precise measuring of oats and flour to ensure ideal texture.
💧 Hydrate raisins before adding to keep cookies moist and plump.
❄️ Chill dough before baking to prevent spreading and improve cookie shape.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 14 minutes
- Cook Time: 11-14 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 105 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
Keywords: Low Calorie Oatmeal Cookies, Healthy Oatmeal Cookies, Soft Chewy Cookies, Banana Raisin Cookies
I just made these healthy oatmeal cookies, and they turned out amazing! 😋 They were perfect for an afternoon snack with my coffee.
I added a dash of cinnamon and a handful of raisins for some extra flavor. Highly recommend! 🍪
★★★★★