Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest offer a delightful twist on the traditional oatmeal cookie. With the vibrant tartness of cranberries, the crunch of walnuts, and the zesty zing of lemon, these cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a wholesome experience. Perfect for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or dessert, these cookies are easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients that promise satisfaction with every bite.
When you need a quick snack to fuel your day or a satisfying dessert to end your meal, these cookies deliver. The combination of sweet dates and tart cranberries creates a balanced flavor profile, while the oats and walnuts add a hearty texture. The lemon zest ties it all together with a refreshing note that leaves you wanting more. Baking these cookies is not just about making something delicious; it’s about creating a nourishing snack that complements any occasion.
Preparation Time :
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients :
- 1 cup (90g) of oats
- ½ cup (50g) of dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup (30g) of chopped walnuts
- ¼ cup (35g) of chopped dates
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons (30g) of melted butter
Instructions :
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (360°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, cranberries, lemon zest, chopped walnuts, and chopped dates. Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the egg until smooth. Add in the melted butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop heaping portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down on each cookie with the back of the spoon to flatten them slightly.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile cookies can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Accompanied by a Hot Beverage: Pair with your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
- As a Nutritious Snack: A great option for kids and adults alike, providing a quick energy boost.
- Breakfast Companion: Serve with yogurt or a smoothie for a balanced and nutritious morning meal.
Baking Tips
- Melted Butter: Ensure the butter is completely melted before mixing with the egg for a smooth batter.
- Lemon Zest: Adjust the amount of lemon zest to taste; more zest will provide a stronger citrus flavor.
- Uniform Cookies: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies and consistent baking.
Health Benefits
These cookies aren’t just tasty; they’re also packed with health benefits:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, oats help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
- Cranberries: High in vitamins and antioxidants, cranberries support overall health.
- Walnuts: Provide a good source of protein and healthy fats, beneficial for heart health.
- Dates: Naturally sweet, dates provide a quick energy boost and are high in essential nutrients.
Nutritional Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular oats with gluten-free oats if necessary.
Per Cookie (Based on 12 Cookies):
- Calories: 100
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 20mg
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Freezing Option: To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, and store for up to three months. Thaw before enjoying.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
- Anytime Delight: Enjoy these cookies any time of day, from breakfast to dessert.
- Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like chocolate chips or different nuts for a personal touch.
Conclusion :
Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies with Lemon Zest are a delightful and wholesome treat that you can enjoy any time. The combination of cranberries, walnuts, and lemon zest provides a unique and refreshing flavor that sets these cookies apart from the usual offerings. Easy to make and full of nutritious ingredients, they offer a perfect balance between taste and health. Whether you’re making them for yourself or sharing them with family and friends, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other dried fruits instead of cranberries?
Yes, you can substitute cranberries with dried apricots, raisins, or dried cherries for a different flavor experience.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
Feel free to use almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts as alternatives to walnuts.
Are these cookies suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of milled flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
How can I make the cookies sweeter?
Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, or increase the number of dates for added sweetness.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, chocolate chips would be a delicious addition to these cookies.
Do I need to soak the dates before using them?
If the dates are particularly dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before chopping and mixing.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
You can use quick oats, but the texture might differ slightly. Rolled oats give a chewier texture.
How do I make the cookies crispier?
Bake them for a few extra minutes until they turn a golden brown color.
Is lemon zest necessary?
While optional, lemon zest adds a lovely citrus flavor that complements the other ingredients.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet?
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies don’t stick.
Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill Lectures
