Whole Wheat Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Whether it's to fulfill our New Year's resolutions or a matter of just wanting to comfortably fit into our favorite jeans, most of us want to eat healthier this time of year. But eating wholesome doesn't have to mean giving up everything that tastes good or denying oneself every sweet treat. Life is meant to be savored and enjoyed, even when trying to get a little healthier.
Sometimes a more nutritious version of our typical sweet treat can be an even tastier alternative. For us, this cookie recipe is one of those instances: A Whole Wheat Oatmeal Raisin Cookie.
The whole wheat flour and oats give the cookies a nice depth of flavor. We used golden raisins, but any dried fruit will give a nice texture and pop of flavor. The butter is cut back to a mere 2 tablespoons for the entire batch. Applesauce becomes a key ingredient, adding a wonderful moistness and flavor.
Here's to a new year and healthier eating that's still full of flavor. May we all fit into our favorite jeans soon.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Place raisins in a small bowl and cover with either warm water or the optional brandy or dark rum. Set aside to macerate.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Mix in egg, apple puree, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in dry ingredients. Drain raisins then stir in. Stir in oats.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of batter on lined baking sheet. Use the back of a fork to slightly flatten.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they look slightly golden around the edges but still seem a touch underdone in the center.
Todd Porter and Diane Cu are professional food and travel photographers who publish the popular food blog White on Rice. Their lives have always been about love, family, friends, sharing, exploring and food.
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