Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for a wholesome treat that’s both satisfying and guilt-free, this Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. These cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy oats, natural sweetness from applesauce, and the rich creaminess of peanut butter—all coming together without relying on heaps of sugar. They’re easy to whip up, comforting, and perfect for any time you want a homemade snack that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Get ready to fall in love with a cookie that’s as good for your taste buds as it is for your wellness goals!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Sometimes the simplest ingredients create the most memorable flavors. Each item in this recipe plays a special role: oats bring heartiness and texture, applesauce adds moisture and a gentle sweetness, peanut butter delivers richness and protein, while cinnamon gives a warm, cozy note that rounds it all off.
- Old-fashioned oats: Use 1 1/2 cups for that perfect chewy texture that makes these cookies so satisfying.
- Sweetened applesauce: 1 cup provides natural sweetness and moisture, keeping the cookies soft without extra sugar.
- Peanut butter (or alternative nut/seed spread): 1 cup adds creaminess and a nutty depth that enriches every bite.
- Ground cinnamon: Just 1/8 teaspoon infuses a subtle warmth that elevates the overall flavor.
How to Make Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking sheet to ensure your cookies don’t stick. This simple prep step makes the entire baking process smoother and ensures your cookies come out perfectly in shape.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the sweetened applesauce, oats, peanut butter, and cinnamon. Stir everything together thoroughly until you have a nicely cohesive dough. The beauty here is in the simplicity—no fuss, just wholesome goodness blending perfectly.
Step 3: Shape and Arrange the Cookies
Using your hands, form the dough into 12 equal-sized balls. Place each one on your prepared baking sheet. Then gently press down on each ball to flatten it into a cookie shape. This step not only ensures even baking but also that each cookie is the perfect size for snacking.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven, and let the cookies bake for 10 to 12 minutes. They’re done when the edges firm up but the center still feels soft to the touch. Watch them closely—these cookies bake fast and should come out perfectly chewy, not dry.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow your cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet or transfer them to a wire rack if you prefer. Cooling helps them set perfectly, giving you that satisfying bite with every cookie. Then, dig in and enjoy these homemade delights!
How to Serve Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies shine on their own, you can sprinkle a tiny bit of extra cinnamon on top before serving to add a hint of spa-like aroma. Alternatively, a light drizzle of natural honey or a few chopped nuts sprinkled on top can bring in an extra layer of texture and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea or a glass of milk (dairy or plant-based) for a satisfying snack time. For a wholesome breakfast twist, serve them alongside fresh fruit or creamy yogurt to balance the oats’ hearty goodness with some juicy freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
To level up your cookie experience, try sandwiching two cookies together with a smear of almond butter or low-sugar jam. You can even crumble them over ice cream or smoothie bowls for an added crunch that’s both unexpected and delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe cookies store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together and losing their perfect chewy texture.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these cookies in advance, they freeze wonderfully. Simply place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they’ll keep fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready for a quick, nutritious treat.
Reheating
To enjoy them warm, pop a cookie or two in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or briefly warm them in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 5 minutes. This will instantly soften the cookies and bring back that freshly baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of sweetened?
Absolutely! Using unsweetened applesauce makes this recipe even lower in sugar, but you might want to add a tiny bit of natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter cookie. The oats and peanut butter will still provide plenty of flavor and texture.
Is it okay to substitute peanut butter with another nut or seed butter?
Yes, feel free to swap peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter. Each will bring its own unique flavor, but all maintain the moist, chewy texture these cookies rely on.
Can I add mix-ins like raisins or chocolate chips?
While the original Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe is delicious on its own, adding a handful of raisins or sugar-free chocolate chips can give your cookies a fun twist and a bit of extra sweetness. Just fold them in during the mixing step before shaping the cookies.
How can I make these cookies crispier?
If you prefer a crispier texture, try flattening the dough balls a bit more before baking and bake a couple of minutes longer, watching closely to avoid burning. Letting them cool completely will also help the edges turn nice and crisp.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
They can be, as oats are naturally gluten-free but can sometimes be processed in facilities that handle wheat. To keep the recipe gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats and ensure your other ingredients are free from gluten contamination.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a cookie you can feel good about eating, and this Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and gentle on sugar, these cookies are a wonderful way to bring a wholesome snack into your day. I can’t wait for you to try them and discover just how delicious simple, natural ingredients can be when baked with love!
Print
Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Delicious low sugar applesauce oatmeal cookies made with wholesome ingredients like oats, sweetened applesauce, and peanut butter. These easy-to-make cookies are perfect as a healthy snack or dessert, offering a soft and chewy texture with just a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup sweetened applesauce
- 1 cup peanut butter (or alternative nut or seed spread)
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. Set it aside for later use.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened applesauce, old-fashioned oats, peanut butter, and ground cinnamon. Stir well until the mixture forms a cohesive dough with all ingredients thoroughly incorporated.
- Shape and Arrange the Cookies: Using your hands, divide the dough into 12 equal-sized balls. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, then gently press each ball down to flatten it into a cookie shape about 1/2 inch thick.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are firm around the edges and lightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent overbaking as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet or transfer them to a wire rack. Once cooled, the cookies are ready to enjoy as a healthy snack or a lightly sweet dessert.
Notes
- You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor or if you have nut allergies.
- If you prefer a less sweet cookie, use unsweetened applesauce instead of sweetened.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Adding a handful of raisins or chopped nuts can enhance texture and flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the oats are certified gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: low sugar applesauce oatmeal cookies, healthy cookies, low sugar snacks, peanut butter cookies, easy cookies recipe, baked oatmeal cookies
