These healthy oatmeal cookies combine the heartiness of quick rolled oats with the nutty crunch of sunflower seeds, creating a deliciously satisfying snack or breakfast on-the-go. Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, these cookies are naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup, making them a wholesome treat without any refined sugars. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or as an afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies are sure to keep you feeling full and energized.
1 cup Quick Rolled Oats
Oats are rich in fiber, especially beta-glucan, which is known to support heart health and stabilize blood sugar levels.
½ cup Sunflower Seeds (unsalted)
Sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch and are packed with vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, making these cookies even more nutritious.
½ cup Whole Wheat Flour or Almond Flour (for gluten-free option)
Whole wheat flour adds a boost of fiber, while almond flour provides a grain-free, protein-rich alternative.
¼ teaspoon Baking Soda
A small amount of baking soda gives the cookies a light rise, ensuring they’re not too dense.
¼ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional)
Cinnamon adds a warm, cozy flavor that complements the oats and sunflower seeds beautifully. It also offers anti-inflammatory properties.
¼ teaspoon Salt
A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
⅓ cup Coconut Oil (melted) or Unsweetened Applesauce (for lower fat option)
Coconut oil provides healthy fats and a slight tropical flavor, while applesauce makes a lighter, lower-fat version of the cookie.
⅓ cup Honey or Maple Syrup
Both honey and maple syrup are natural sweeteners that add depth of flavor without the need for refined sugars. You can adjust the amount for a sweeter or less sweet cookie.
1 Egg or Flax Egg (for a vegan option: mix 1 tbsp flaxseed meal with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes)
The egg binds the ingredients together, and the flax egg is a great plant-based alternative rich in omega-3s.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Vanilla enhances the flavor of the cookies, adding a sweet and aromatic touch.
¼ cup Raisins or Dried Cranberries (optional)
Dried fruits add a natural sweetness and chewy texture, making the cookies even more satisfying. You can substitute with chocolate chips for a more indulgent treat.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the quick rolled oats, sunflower seeds, flour, baking soda, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients. This ensures that the sunflower seeds and oats are coated in flour and will be evenly spread throughout the cookies.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil (or applesauce), honey (or maple syrup), egg (or flax egg), and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. If you're using a flax egg, make sure it has thickened before adding it to the wet ingredients.
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly mixed. The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold together. If you’re adding raisins or dried cranberries, fold them in now to incorporate them evenly into the dough.
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon or your hands, as they won’t spread much during baking.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. The cookies may still look soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial, as it helps the cookies set and develop their final chewy texture.
Add Seeds and Nuts: Feel free to mix in additional seeds like flaxseeds or chia seeds for more crunch and a boost of omega-3s. Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can also be added for extra protein and healthy fats.
Sweetness Level: If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup by a tablespoon. For a sweeter option, you can add a few dark chocolate chips along with the raisins.
Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a more aromatic flavor profile. A pinch of each can elevate the cookies into a fall-inspired treat.
Oats: Known for their high fiber content, especially beta-glucan, oats are excellent for heart health, lowering cholesterol, and supporting digestion. They also provide sustained energy due to their complex carbohydrates.
Sunflower Seeds: Rich in healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium, sunflower seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition. They support skin health, reduce inflammation, and provide a satisfying crunch to baked goods.
Coconut Oil/Applesauce: Coconut oil is a healthy fat that provides energy and supports brain function. Applesauce is a fat-free alternative that adds moisture and natural sweetness to the cookies, making them even healthier.
Honey/Maple Syrup: These natural sweeteners contain antioxidants and nutrients not found in refined sugars, making them a healthier choice for sweetening baked goods.
For Breakfast: Enjoy these oatmeal cookies with a cup of coffee or tea in the morning. They’re filling enough to serve as a quick breakfast or mid-morning snack.
Post-Workout Snack: The combination of oats, sunflower seeds, and honey provides a great mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making these cookies an ideal snack after a workout.
Kid-Friendly Treat: These cookies are a great alternative to store-bought snacks. They’re naturally sweetened, and you can get kids involved in shaping and flattening the dough for a fun kitchen activity.
At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer-Friendly: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a fresh-tasting cookie.
These healthy oatmeal cookies made with quick rolled oats and sunflower seeds are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. With natural sweeteners, healthy fats, and fiber-rich ingredients, they make a wholesome snack or treat for any time of the day. Customize the recipe to suit your tastes, and enjoy a cookie that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!
Try our USDA certified organic Oats ❤
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