Creating delightful and nutritious treats that cater to both taste buds and health can sometimes seem like a daunting task, especially when trying to balance simplicity with flavor. However, this 4 Ingredient Blueberry Oatmeal Cookie recipe brilliantly marries ease, health, and deliciousness into one seamless experience. Recently, I decided to whip up a batch of these cookies, drawn in by the simplicity of the ingredients and the promise of a tasty, wholesome snack. The result? An instant hit among my family. Even the most health-averse among us were pleasantly surprised by the natural sweetness and satisfying texture of these cookies. The burst of blueberries amidst the chewy oats made for a delightful treat that’s now become a staple in our home snack rotation.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free, if needed)
- 2 large bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Line a cookie sheet or baking tray with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your oats, peanut butter, and banana and mix well. Fold through your blueberries using a rubber spatula.
- Form 12 balls of dough and place them on the lined tray. Press each ball into a cookie shape.
- Bake the blueberry oatmeal cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until golden on the edges and just cooked in the center.
- Remove cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the tray for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
- Servings: 12 cookies
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 22 minutes (10 minutes preparation, 12 minutes cooking)
Additional Tips
- Sweetness adjustment: For those who prefer a sweeter taste, adding maple syrup or honey can enhance the flavor. About 2 tablespoons should suffice.
- Freshness counts: Whenever possible, use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- Customization: Consider adding white chocolate chips, folding through some blueberry jam, or incorporating lemon zest for a citrus twist to your cookies.
- Texture matters: If you desire a more varied texture, you can add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds to the mix.
- Storage: These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for several days, making them perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in your cookies.
Q: Are these cookies vegan? A: Yes, as long as you use dairy-free peanut butter, these cookies are vegan.
Q: Can I substitute the peanut butter? A: Absolutely! Almond butter or any nut butter works well as a substitute.
Q: How can I make these cookies gluten-free? A: Simply ensure that the rolled oats you’re using are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I add more blueberries than the recipe calls for? A: Yes, but be cautious as adding too many can make the dough too wet and affect the cookies’ texture.
Q: How long do these cookies last? A: Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature.
Q: Can I freeze these cookies? A: Yes, they freeze well. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Q: Can I use a different fruit? A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with chopped strawberries, raspberries, or even chocolate chips.
Q: Is it possible to make these cookies without bananas? A: The bananas act as a binding agent. For a substitute, applesauce might work, but the texture and taste will differ.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done? A: The edges should be golden, and the center should feel set but still soft. They’ll continue to harden as they cool.
In conclusion, this 4 Ingredient Blueberry Oatmeal Cookie recipe offers a wonderful blend of health, simplicity, and taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a healthy snack, or a delightful treat to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt, these cookies are sure to impress. With room for customization and adjustments based on personal preference, they’re not just cookies but a canvas for your culinary creativity. Give them a try, and they might just become your new favorite go-to recipe.