4 Ingredient Healthier Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These 4 Ingredient Healthier Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies are a simple and delicious treat, perfect for a wholesome snack. Made with natural ingredients like apples, oats, peanut butter, and maple syrup, they offer a comforting apple pie flavor without the fuss. Enjoy a guilt-free bite that’s easy to whip up any time.

Ingredients

• 88 g (1 cup – 2 tbsp) finely chopped peeled apples, cut into 1/8 to 1/4 inch pieces
• 1 1/2 tbsp (22ml) + 3 tbsp (44ml) maple syrup, divided
• 3/4 cup – 1 tbsp (64g) quick oats
• 6 tbsp (96g) unsweetened natural peanut butter with no added oils

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped apples with 1 1/2 tbsp maple syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the apples release their juices and are lightly cooked, about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should become sticky with most of the liquid evaporated. Let it cool.
3. Step 3: Place the quick oats in a food processor and pulse until they become very fine, resembling a partial flour consistency, about 30 seconds on high.
4. Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the processed oats, remaining 3 tbsp maple syrup, and peanut butter. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until the mixture forms a thick, cookie dough-like consistency. If too dry, add a bit more peanut butter or maple syrup.
5. Step 5: Using a 1.5 tbsp cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Roll each scoop into a smooth ball, place it back on the sheet, and flatten it with your palm to about 1/2 inch thick. Make a large indent in the center of each disk with your thumb.
6. Step 6: Spoon a heaping 1/2 tbsp of the cooled apple filling into the center indent of each cookie.
7. Step 7: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn lightly browned. Allow cookies to cool completely on the sheet before transferring or serving, as they will firm up while cooling.

Tips & Variations

• Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture or almond butter as a nut-free alternative.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for extra warmth and spice.
• Pulse the oats less for a chunkier cookie or more for a finer texture.
• If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for 10-15 minutes before scooping.

Storage

Store uneaten cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven or microwave for a soft, freshly baked feel.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, you can substitute rolled oats, but pulse them longer in the food processor to achieve a finer texture similar to quick oats.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

They can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check your oats’ packaging to be sure.

4 Ingredient Healthier Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

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4.4 from 81 reviews

These 4 Ingredient Healthier Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies combine the comforting flavors of apple pie with the wholesome goodness of oats and peanut butter. Made with simple, natural ingredients and sweetened naturally with maple syrup, these cookies are a delicious and nutritious treat perfect for a quick snack or dessert.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Apple Filling

• 88 g (1 cup – 2 tbsp) finely chopped peeled apples, cut into 1/8 to 1/4 inch pieces
• 1 1/2 tbsp (22 ml) maple syrup

Cookie Dough

• 3/4 cup – 1 tbsp (64 g) quick oats
• 3 tbsp (44 ml) maple syrup
• 6 tbsp (96 g) unsweetened natural peanut butter with no added oils

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Cook Apples: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped apples and 1.5 tablespoons of maple syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning, until the apples release their juices and soften, about 3-5 minutes. Continue cooking until most of the liquid has evaporated, leaving a sticky apple mixture. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
3. Process Oats: Add the quick oats to a food processor and pulse on high for about 30 seconds until the oats are finely ground to a flour-like consistency.
4. Mix Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground oats, remaining 3 tablespoons maple syrup, and peanut butter. Stir thoroughly with a spatula until the mixture forms a thick, even cookie dough. If the mixture is too dry or crumbly, add a bit more peanut butter or maple syrup until the desired consistency is achieved.
5. Form Cookies: Using a 1.5 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth balls. Place back on the sheet and flatten each ball with your palm into a 1/2 inch thick disk. Make a large indent in the center of each cookie using your thumb.
6. Fill Cookies: Spoon a heaping 1/2 tablespoon of the cooled apple filling into the indent in the center of each cookie.
7. Bake and Cool: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time lets them firm up properly. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.

Notes

• Make sure not to overcook the apples; they should be soft but still slightly chunky for texture.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the maple syrup slightly to your taste.
• Use natural peanut butter without added oils or sugars for a healthier option.
• Cookies can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
• To customize, try adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra warm spice flavors.

Keywords: apple pie cookies, oatmeal cookies, healthy cookies, peanut butter cookies, maple syrup dessert, easy baking, quick cookies