Low Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked cookie, especially when it’s a delightful blend of chewy oats and rich chocolate. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Low Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies, a treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without the guilt. These cookies are perfect for an afternoon snack, a lunchbox treat, or even a late-night indulgence. With wholesome ingredients and a simple method, you can whip up a batch in no time!

Why It’s My Go-To

These Low Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies have become my go-to recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The combination of oats and applesauce keeps them moist and chewy while reducing the fat content. Plus, the use of miniature chocolate chips ensures that every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness without overwhelming the cookie. And let’s not forget, they are made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s a win-win situation that I can’t resist!

Shopping List

If you’re ready to bake these delicious cookies, here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon allspice
• ½ cup granulated white sugar
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup quick cooking oats
• 2 tablespoons miniature semisweet chocolate chips

Appliances & Accessories

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following appliances and accessories:

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – accurate measurements are key to baking success.
• Baking sheet – to hold your cookies while they bake.
• Parchment paper – optional, but it helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
• Whisk – for mixing dry ingredients and a handheld mixer for blending wet ingredients.

The Method for Low Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps to prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and allspice. Ensure these ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, unsweetened applesauce, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Use a handheld mixer or a whisk to blend until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Oats and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the quick cooking oats and miniature chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool

Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to make these cookies even healthier or to accommodate specific dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Replace the unsweetened applesauce with mashed bananas for a different flavor profile.
• Substitute coconut oil for the unsalted butter for a dairy-free option.
• Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet for a richer taste and less sugar.

If You’re Curious

These Low Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Here are a few fun facts you might find interesting:

• Oats are a great source of fiber, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
• Applesauce is a fantastic substitute for oil or butter in baking, reducing fat while adding moisture.
• You can easily customize these cookies by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even spices like cinnamon for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze the cookie dough in individual scoops for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time. Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Questions People Ask

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, quick oats work perfectly in this recipe! They will blend seamlessly into the dough and provide the desired chewy texture.

What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?

If your cookies are dry, it could be due to overbaking or measuring too much flour. Make sure to spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy. If they do come out dry, consider adding a little more applesauce next time.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and ensure that the oats you use are certified gluten-free.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter alternative.

Don’t Miss These

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for more delightful baking recipes.
• Pinch of Yum for inspiring food photography and recipes.
• Minimalist Baker for simple, quick recipes that require 10 ingredients or less.

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed these Low Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll want to explore more of my favorite healthy baking recipes. Keep an eye out for upcoming posts featuring deliciously nutritious desserts that you can feel good about indulging in. From muffins to cakes, let’s continue this journey of guilt-free baking together!

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of cookies baking in the oven, and with this Low Fat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe, you can indulge in a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy eating goals. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a batch of cookies that are both satisfying and wholesome! Happy baking!