Oatmeal Cookie Nutrition: Healthy Snack

Oatmeal cookies are a popular snack that can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet when made with the right ingredients. A traditional oatmeal cookie recipe typically includes rolled oats, sugar, eggs, flour, and butter or oil. However, it's possible to make oatmeal cookies healthier by using less sugar, choosing healthier fats, and adding in nutritious ingredients like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of oatmeal cookies and provide tips for making them a healthier snack option.

Nutritional Benefits of Oatmeal Cookies

Oatmeal cookies can be a good source of several important nutrients, including fiber, protein, and healthy fats. The oats in oatmeal cookies are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and promote digestive health. Additionally, the eggs and nuts or seeds in oatmeal cookies provide protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. Healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can also be found in oatmeal cookies, particularly if they are made with nuts or seeds.

Macro-Nutrient Breakdown

A typical oatmeal cookie can range from 100 to 200 calories, depending on the size and ingredients. Here is a breakdown of the macro-nutrients found in a typical oatmeal cookie:

It's worth noting that the nutritional content of oatmeal cookies can vary widely depending on the ingredients and portion size. To make oatmeal cookies a healthier snack option, it's a good idea to choose recipes that use less sugar, healthier fats, and more nutritious ingredients like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit.

Healthy Oatmeal Cookie Recipes

There are many ways to make oatmeal cookies healthier, from using less sugar to adding in nutritious ingredients like fruit or nuts. Here are some tips for making healthy oatmeal cookies:

• Use less sugar: Try reducing the amount of sugar in your oatmeal cookie recipe or using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Choose healthier fats: Instead of using butter or oil, try using coconut oil or avocado oil for a healthier fat option.
• Add in nutritious ingredients: Nuts, seeds, and dried fruit are all great options for adding nutrition and flavor to oatmeal cookies.
• Use whole wheat flour: Instead of using refined flour, try using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber.

Example Recipe: Healthy Oatmeal Cookies with Nuts and Dried Fruit

Here is an example recipe for healthy oatmeal cookies that includes nuts and dried fruit:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (such as cranberries or raisins)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, nuts, and dried fruit.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey or maple syrup, coconut oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.