Healthy Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies

Healthy Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies combine festive flavors with wholesome ingredients, making them the perfect treat for holidays or any cozy occasion. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free dessert that everyone in the family will love. You can whip them up for a delightful snack or as a contribution to a holiday gathering. Let’s dive into why this recipe is worth your time and how you can make these delightful cookies.

Reasons to Try It

What makes these Healthy Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies special? First and foremost, they are wholesome yet indulgent. Made with rolled oats and almond flour (or all-purpose flour), these cookies are packed with nutrients. The use of unsweetened applesauce instead of butter or oil keeps them light while adding moisture.

These cookies are perfect for holiday baking, giving you the festive spirit without the added guilt. Their delightful gingerbread flavor makes them an ideal treat during the winter months, yet they’re versatile enough to enjoy year-round. With a drizzle of icing, they bring a touch of sweetness that’s child-approved and perfect for family gatherings.

“These cookies are a holiday staple in our home! The gingerbread flavor is comforting, and they’re so much healthier than traditional cookies!” – A Happy Baker

Step-by-Step Overview

Preparing Healthy Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies is a straightforward process that will have your kitchen smelling delicious in no time. You’ll mix both wet and dry ingredients and then bake them into delightful cookies. After that, a simple icing drizzle adds a lovely finishing touch. Let’s break down the ingredients you will need to create these treats.

Gather These Items

To make Healthy Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup almond flour (or all-purpose flour)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup icing (for decoration)

Feel free to swap out almond flour for all-purpose flour if you prefer, or adjust the sweeteners based on availability and taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these simple steps to create your cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, almond flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, combine the applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), and molasses.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Once cooled, drizzle with icing and serve.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Healthy Iced Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. They also make wonderful additions to a holiday cookie platter, showcasing their festive aesthetic with that signature icing drizzle. Consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla or ginger ice cream for a sweet contrast, or crumble them over yogurt for a nutritious breakfast treat.

How to Store & Freeze

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between them. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Practical Cooking Tips

1. Mixing: Ensure you mix your wet and dry ingredients thoroughly so that the flavors distribute evenly.
2. Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of the baking time. Every oven is different, and you want them to be perfectly golden, not overbaked.
3. Icing: For a decorative touch, you can add food coloring to the icing or create fun designs on the cookies.

Creative Twists

Feel free to add your personal touch to these cookies. Consider incorporating chocolate chips or dried fruit for added texture and sweetness. If you’re looking to make them a bit more festive, add crushed candy canes on top of the icing for a crunchy peppermint twist. For those who enjoy nutty flavors, a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add an extra crunch.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
Preparation for these cookies takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes of baking time, making them a quick and easy treat.

Can I use different types of flour?
Certainly! You can substitute almond flour with whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour if you prefer.

How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make these cookies vegan, you can replace honey with maple syrup and ensure your icing is made with vegan ingredients.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, try adding a touch more flour or oats to achieve the desired consistency.

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