If you're looking for a delicious and healthy treat, these Healthy Pumpkin Oat Cookies are just the ticket! I remember one fall afternoon when my son, Jake, and I decided to whip up a batch together. We ended up with flour everywhere, but the laughter and the yummy cookies made it all worth it.
Why You’ll Love It
- They're packed with wholesome ingredients.
- Perfect for a guilt-free snack or dessert.
- Kids love them, and they’re so easy to make.
Pure Comfort
These cookies are pure comfort food, combining the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with the heartiness of oats. They’re soft, chewy, and just the right amount of sweet, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
What You Need
- 8 oz 1 cup pumpkin puree – Canned or homemade works great.
- 4 oz 1/2 cup natural peanut butter – You can substitute almond butter if desired.
- 3 oz 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup – Adjust sweetness to taste.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract – For added flavor.
- 3 oz 1 cup rolled oats – Gluten-free oats can be used.
- 3 oz 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips – Use dairy-free chips for a vegan option.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp baking soda – Helps cookies rise.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice – Or use a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- 1/4 tsp 1/4 tsp salt – Balances sweetness.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Total: 25 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, they can be made a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
- In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well combined.
- Add in the rolled oats, chocolate chips, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed, and you see those lovely chocolate chips peeking through.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto a lined baking sheet. Leave some space between each scoop, as they will spread a little while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes. You'll know they're done when they look slightly golden and smell amazing.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit and makes them easier to handle.
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, try adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough.
- If you like your cookies a bit crunchier, bake them for an extra minute or two.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Mix It Up
- Swap out the chocolate chips for raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty flavor.
Perfect Partners
- These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve them alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced snack.
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FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of pumpkin puree?
You can substitute with applesauce for a different flavor.
Are these cookies healthy?
Yes, they are made with wholesome ingredients and are low in fat, making them a great guilt-free snack!
Conclusion
These Healthy Pumpkin Oat Cookies are a delightful treat that you can feel good about enjoying. With their wholesome ingredients, they're perfect for snacking or dessert. Give them a try and enjoy the cozy flavors of fall any time of year!
Healthy Pumpkin Oat Cookies for Guilt-Free Snacking
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main
- 8 oz pumpkin puree Canned or homemade works great.
- 4 oz natural peanut butter Can substitute almond butter if desired.
- 3 oz honey or maple syrup Adjust sweetness to taste.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract For added flavor.
- 3 oz rolled oats Gluten-free oats can be used.
- 3 oz dark chocolate chips Use dairy-free chips for a vegan option.
- 1 tsp baking soda Helps cookies rise.
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice Or use a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- 1/4 tsp salt Balances sweetness.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix pumpkin puree, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add rolled oats, chocolate chips, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt; stir until evenly mixed.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until cookies are slightly golden and aromatic.
- Cool cookies on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to firm up.