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Carrot Oatmeal Cookies: A Healthy Dessert Without Added Sugar or Gluten
Are you craving a wholesome and nutritious treat that won’t derail your health goals? These Carrot Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect solution! Packed with the goodness of oats, carrots, and natural sweeteners, these cookies provide a guilt-free indulgence that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. And the best part? They’re naturally free from added sugars and gluten, making them a wonderful option for people with dietary restrictions or anyone looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Whether you’re following a Weight Watchers program, managing your blood sugar levels, or simply want to enjoy a homemade dessert that is good for you, these cookies hit the mark. Let’s take a deep dive into the recipe, the nutritional benefits, and how to make the most of this delightful treat.
Why Choose Carrot Oatmeal Cookies?
There are many reasons why these Carrot Oatmeal Cookies are a fantastic choice for your healthy dessert cravings:
- Gluten-Free: Made with certified gluten-free oats and natural ingredients, these cookies are safe for those who are sensitive to gluten or follow a gluten-free diet.
- No Added Sugar: Instead of refined sugars, these cookies rely on the natural sweetness of carrots and a small amount of honey or maple syrup, making them a great choice for those who want to reduce their sugar intake.
- Rich in Nutrients: With ingredients like oats, carrots, and walnuts, these cookies are a source of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats that contribute to overall health.
- Weight Watchers-Friendly: With the right modifications, these cookies can be adjusted to fit the Weight Watchers points system, making it easier to stay on track with your healthy eating goals.
Carrot Oatmeal Cookies Recipe (Yield: 18 cookies)
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup finely grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 medium banana)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for added crunch and healthy fats)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (for a naturally sweetened option)
- 1 egg (or flax egg for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup almond flour or coconut flour (to add structure and help bind the cookies)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana, unsweetened applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), and the egg (or flax egg). Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and fully incorporated. The banana and applesauce not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to the moist texture of the cookies.
Step 3: Grate the Carrots
Finely grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. You’ll need about 1/2 cup of finely grated carrots. Carrots not only give these cookies a delightful sweetness and moisture but also provide vitamins and antioxidants that promote eye health, immune function, and skin health.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour (or coconut flour), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together until evenly mixed. The oats provide a hearty base for these cookies, while the almond flour or coconut flour adds a bit of structure without gluten.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Make sure not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cookies. Add the grated carrots and walnuts (if using) and fold them into the dough gently.
Step 6: Portion and Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough into small mounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use the back of the spoon or your fingers to gently flatten each mound into a cookie shape. This will help the cookies bake evenly and achieve a nice golden color.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are set. Since these cookies are soft and moist, they will firm up as they cool. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooled, these Carrot Oatmeal Cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days or freeze for up to 3 months for long-term storage.
Nutritional Information per Cookie (Approximately 18 cookies per batch)
- Calories: 85
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Weight Watchers Points: 2 Points (Blue, Green, Purple Plan)
Note: Nutritional information and Weight Watchers points may vary depending on specific ingredients used (e.g., honey vs. maple syrup or the inclusion of nuts). For more precise tracking, use the ingredients you have on hand and adjust accordingly.
Weight Watchers Points Breakdown
For those following the Weight Watchers program, each cookie comes in at 2 points per serving, based on the SmartPoints system (Blue, Green, and Purple plans). If you’re looking to reduce points further, consider the following tips:
- Swap out the honey or maple syrup for a no-calorie sweetener like Stevia or monk fruit (this can bring the point value down to 1 point per cookie).
- Omit the nuts (this reduces the fat content and the points value).
- Use egg whites instead of a whole egg to lower the calorie count without compromising the texture.
Health Benefits of Carrot Oatmeal Cookies
- Rich in Fiber: The oats and carrots in these cookies are a great source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestion, regulating blood sugar, and keeping you feeling full longer.
- Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, an essential nutrient for healthy vision and immune function. The bananas provide potassium, which is vital for heart health and muscle function.
- Healthy Fats: If you choose to include walnuts, they provide omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular function.
- Lower Glycemic Impact: Because these cookies are sweetened naturally with fruits like banana and applesauce, they have a lower glycemic index compared to traditional cookies made with refined sugars. This means they cause less of a blood sugar spike, making them a good option for those with diabetes or those monitoring blood sugar levels.
Customizations & Variations
While this recipe is delicious as-is, you can make a few simple modifications to cater to your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for a completely plant-based version.
- Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts if you have a nut allergy or prefer to keep it nut-free.
- Dried Fruit: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates for added texture and sweetness.
- Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or cloves to give the cookies a unique flavor twist.
Storage Tips
These Carrot Oatmeal Cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.
Conclusion
These Carrot Oatmeal Cookies offer a healthy and satisfying way to enjoy a treat without compromising your health goals. With the natural sweetness of carrots and banana, the satisfying texture of oats, and a boost of nutrients, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your healthy dessert repertoire.
Perfect for a snack or a wholesome dessert, they’re also easy to make and customize to your liking. Plus, with just a few Weight Watchers points per serving, they make a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
So, next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, make a batch of these Carrot Oatmeal Cookies. They’re a nutritious, tasty, and easy treat you can feel good about enjoying!