Yield: 36 servings
Prep Time: 1 Hr 15 Min
Cook Time: 30 Min
Method: Bake
Introduction:
When it comes to maintaining good heart health, small lifestyle changes can make a significant impact, especially when it comes to our diet. One of the most important steps in managing cholesterol levels is choosing foods that support healthy heart function. These oatmeal cookies, while delicious, are also packed with ingredients that are known to help lower cholesterol, making them a guilt-free treat for those looking to improve their heart health. With heart-friendly swaps like avocado oil, egg whites, and unsweetened applesauce, these cookies prove that healthy eating can still be indulgent. So, whether you’re concerned about cholesterol or simply looking for a wholesome snack, these cookies are an easy and tasty option that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 large egg whites
- 3/4 cup avocado oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2/3 cup raisins (optional but adds a natural sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for an extra health boost)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
Begin by setting up a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, whisk together the egg whites and avocado oil until they are fully combined. The avocado oil offers heart-healthy fats that are known for their ability to support healthy cholesterol levels. Add the salt, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar to the mixture, blending them together until the ingredients are well integrated. The balance between these sugars gives the cookies a slightly caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the oats. - Mix in the Applesauce and Flavorings:
To ensure these cookies stay moist while being heart-healthy, incorporate unsweetened applesauce into the mixture. This substitution helps replace the need for butter or oil, reducing saturated fats without sacrificing flavor. Add the raisins (which contribute fiber and natural sweetness) along with the vanilla extract for a warm, aromatic fragrance. Stir in the baking soda, which will help your cookies rise, and the ground cinnamon, which adds a delicious spice that enhances the overall flavor. - Add the Oats:
Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats, which are not only the base of this cookie but also a fantastic source of soluble fiber. Oats have been shown to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, making them a great addition to any heart-healthy diet. The texture of the oats in the cookies provides a chewy consistency that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients. - Incorporate the Flour:
Gradually add the all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for an added fiber boost) to the mixture. Stir until the flour is just incorporated, ensuring the dough comes together without overworking it. The right consistency should be soft yet firm enough to hold shape when you form cookie dough balls. - Chill the Dough:
Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least one hour. This step is important because it helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into individual cookie portions. The chilling process also helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they hold their shape and texture. - Preheat the Oven and Form the Dough:
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (or 350°F if using a convection oven). Once the dough has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator. Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place 12 dough balls on each baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space to spread out as they bake. - Bake the Cookies:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 13 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set. Be mindful of the baking time; overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to rest on the baking sheet for about a minute. - Cool and Store:
After resting for a minute, use a spatula to carefully transfer the cookies to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before storing. The cookies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or they can be frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion:
These heart-healthy oatmeal cookies offer the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition, making them a smart choice for anyone looking to manage their cholesterol levels without sacrificing taste. By swapping out traditional ingredients with wholesome alternatives like egg whites, avocado oil, and applesauce, these cookies deliver the satisfaction of a classic treat while also supporting a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack, sharing them with friends, or packing them in a lunchbox, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your healthy eating routine. So go ahead, indulge guilt-free, and feel good knowing you’re nourishing your heart with every bite!
