Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blends the warmth of pumpkin with the heartiness of oats. These cookies strike a beautiful balance between indulgence and health, making them ideal for those who enjoy sweet treats without the guilt. This recipe uses whole wheat flour and coconut oil, adding a nutritious twist to your traditional cookie.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips or raisins (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt, ensuring they are well combined.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4:

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir them together until just combined to avoid over-mixing, which can affect the texture of the cookies.

Step 5:

If using, fold in the chocolate chips or raisins to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 6:

Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each portion with the back of a spoon or your fingers.

Step 7:

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. This short baking time ensures the cookies remain chewy.

Step 8:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variation

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a spicier flavor that complements the pumpkin and cinnamon.

Cooking Note:

Monitor the cookies closely as oven temperatures can vary; overbaking will lead to a harder texture rather than chewy.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite nut milk as a delicious snack or a quick breakfast option.

Tips:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to help them mix more uniformly.
• If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking to make handling easier.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 130 per cookie (with chocolate chips)
• Protein: 2 grams
• Sodium: 75 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use gluten-free flour instead of whole wheat flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour at a 1:1 ratio for whole wheat flour in this recipe.

Q: How can I make these cookies vegan?
A: Use vegan chocolate chips and ensure that your maple syrup is certified vegan.

Conclusion

Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies are a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. These cookies are easy to make, wonderfully delicious, and healthy enough to enjoy without any reservations. Whether you’re making a batch for a school snack or just to have something sweet around the house, these cookies are sure to be a hit!