Oatmeal Walnut Cookies

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Oatmeal Walnut Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Oatmeal walnut cookies are a delicious, hearty treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of walnuts with the soft, chewy texture of oats. These cookies not only offer a comforting sweetness but also provide a healthy dose of fiber, healthy fats, and protein from the oats and walnuts. Perfect for snacking, dessert, or even breakfast, oatmeal walnut cookies bring a satisfying crunch and wholesome goodness to every bite. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a post-workout snack, these cookies are a beloved classic in the world of homemade baked goods.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer or a whisk.
  4. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually stir the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Add the Walnuts: Fold in the chopped walnuts and raisins or chocolate chips (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  7. Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, form dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown and the center is set. For a chewier cookie, bake on the shorter end of the time range.
  9. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Methods

  • Ingredient Substitutions: You can make these cookies dairy-free by substituting the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also add other mix-ins, such as chopped dried fruit or coconut flakes, for additional flavor.
  • Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature, or you can freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.

History of Oatmeal Cookies

Oatmeal cookies have a long-standing tradition in American baking. Their roots can be traced back to the early 19th century, when oats were commonly used as a staple in cooking. The classic oatmeal cookie became widely popular in the early 1900s. Over the years, variations emerged, and the addition of nuts, particularly walnuts, raisins, and chocolate chips, has become a beloved customization. Oatmeal walnut cookies offer a perfect blend of sweetness, texture, and nutrition, making them a timeless favorite.

Benefits of Oatmeal Walnut Cookies

  1. Rich in Fiber: Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which aids digestion, helps control blood sugar levels, and promotes heart health. The fiber content in these cookies helps keep you fuller longer, making them a satisfying snack.
  2. Heart-Healthy Fats: Walnuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering bad cholesterol levels.
  3. Protein: Walnuts, oats, and egg in these cookies contribute to the overall protein content, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and maintaining healthy skin and hair.
  4. Antioxidants: Walnuts contain antioxidants, such as vitamin E, which can help combat oxidative stress and protect against cell damage.
  5. Weight Management: Despite being a treat, these cookies provide a balanced combination of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, making them a satisfying and nutritious snack that can help with weight management.
  6. Nutrient-Rich: The cinnamon in the cookies adds more than just flavor; it also provides anti-inflammatory properties and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and manage blood glucose.
  7. Rich in Fiber:
  8. Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps regulate digestion, manage cholesterol levels, and maintain healthy blood sugar levels. The fiber content in oatmeal walnut cookies also helps to promote a feeling of fullness, reducing the chances of overeating.
  9. Heart-Healthy Fats:
  10. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and lower bad cholesterol levels (LDL). Incorporating walnuts into your diet through oatmeal cookies is a tasty way to support cardiovascular health.
  11. Packed with Protein:
  12. Walnuts and oats contribute to the protein content in the cookies. Protein is vital for muscle repair, immune function, and the production of enzymes and hormones. A small dose of protein in your cookies helps keep you satisfied for longer periods.
  13. Antioxidant-Rich:
  14. Walnuts contain antioxidants like vitamin E, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage. Antioxidants play a key role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
  15. Improved Blood Sugar Regulation:
  16. Oats are known for their low glycemic index, which means they release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar. This makes oatmeal walnut cookies a better choice compared to other sugary treats, especially for those managing diabetes.
  17. Supports Digestive Health:
  18. The fiber from oats not only helps with digestion but also supports a healthy gut microbiome. Fiber encourages regular bowel movements and helps prevent constipation, promoting overall digestive health.
  19. Mood and Cognitive Support:
  20. Walnuts are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, which are beneficial for brain health. Omega-3s in walnuts can help boost cognitive function and may improve mood, making these cookies a great snack for mental clarity and emotional well-being.
  21. Nutrient-Dense:
  22. Oatmeal walnut cookies are full of essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins (important for energy production), magnesium (supports muscle function), and iron (necessary for blood health). These nutrients make these cookies a more wholesome option than traditional cookies, providing added nutritional value.
  23. Supports Weight Management:
  24. Despite being a treat, oatmeal walnut cookies can contribute to weight management. The fiber and protein in these cookies help control appetite, making them a more satisfying snack option. They also provide energy without causing the sugar crashes often associated with other sweet snacks.
  25. Versatile and Customizable:
  26. Oatmeal walnut cookies can be easily customized to suit dietary needs. You can add other healthy ingredients like dark chocolate, seeds, or dried fruits, which can provide additional benefits such as enhanced antioxidant properties or extra fiber.

In conclusion, oatmeal walnut cookies are not just a delicious indulgence but a nutritious snack that provides numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking for heart-healthy fats, digestive support, or a protein-packed treat, these cookies are a great choice to support overall health while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Formation

Oatmeal walnut cookies form a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, with the oats providing a chewy, slightly nutty base, while the walnuts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. The butter and sugars create a rich, soft cookie, with the walnuts giving a contrasting texture that enhances each bite. The spices, particularly the cinnamon, infuse the cookies with a warm, comforting scent that makes them irresistible.

Nutrition (Per Cookie)

(Assumes 24 cookies per batch)

  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Sugar: 9g
  • Fat: 7g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Potassium: 60mg
  • Calcium: 20mg
  • Iron: 1mg
  • Vitamin A: 4% DV
  • Vitamin C: 0% DV
  • Calories: 120
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Potassium: 60mg
  • Calcium: 20mg
  • Iron: 1mg
  • Vitamin A: 4% of Daily Value (DV)
  • Vitamin C: 0% of Daily Value (DV)

Key Nutritional Highlights:

  • Fiber: The oats and walnuts provide 2g of dietary fiber per cookie, which supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
  • Healthy Fats: Each cookie contains 7g of total fat, including heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from walnuts, which support cardiovascular health.
  • Protein: With 2g of protein per cookie, the combination of oats and walnuts helps to keep you fuller longer and supports muscle repair and growth.
  • Low in Sugar: At 9g of sugar per cookie, this is lower than many traditional cookies, making it a better option for managing blood sugar levels and reducing cravings for sugary snacks.
  • Vitamins and Minerals: The cookies provide small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium (important for bone health), iron (for oxygen transport in the blood), and magnesium (for muscle and nerve function).

These cookies offer a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious and satisfying snack that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Nutritional Highlights: These cookies provide a good balance of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a great snack option to keep you energized and satisfied. While they do contain sugar, the oats and walnuts add significant nutritional value to make them a better option compared to regular cookies.

Conclusion

Oatmeal walnut cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they offer a healthy dose of nutrients and are packed with flavors that are sure to please everyone. With the combination of fiber from the oats, heart-healthy fats from the walnuts, and a touch of sweetness, they make for the perfect balanced snack. Whether you enjoy them as an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-workout treat, these cookies will satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising your health.

Lovers of Oatmeal Walnut Cookies

For lovers of hearty, wholesome desserts, oatmeal walnut cookies are the go-to choice. The classic flavor combination of oats and walnuts creates a comforting treat that appeals to those who enjoy both indulgence and nourishment. These cookies are beloved by individuals of all ages, from children to adults, and they are perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet snack while still reaping the benefits of healthy ingredients.

Enjoy the goodness of oatmeal walnut cookies, and remember that with every bite, you’re indulging in a delicious, nutritious treat!

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