Oatmeal Cookies

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These oatmeal cookies are delicious with chocolate chips, carob chips, raisins, or tiny dried date pieces; it is like having 3-4 different recipes.  I sometimes make them without the added coconut which also changes the texture and flavor.  When doing that, I usually leave out the applesauce.  So, take the basic recipe and run with it!  

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They naturally are most scrumptious right out of the oven, but if you freeze them as soon as they are completely cooled down, they will retain a lot of that goodness.  When company shows up, all you have to do is bring them from the freezer, let them thaw briefly and pop them in the oven for a few minutes before you serve them; everyone will think you just made a fresh batch!  If you like your desserts not so sweet, omit the Sucanat or brown sugar.

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Oatmeal Cookies

Servings  –  2 1/2 - 3 dozen
Prep Time   – 15-20 minutes
Cook Time  – 10-12 minutes

Ingredients:

Dry:

2 1/2 cups quick oats

1 1/2 cups barley flour (or regular white) -stir before measuring

1/2 cup unsweetened macaroon coconut

1/4 cup Sucanat or brown sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp baking soda, opt.

1/2 tsp coriander or cinnamon, opt.

1/2 cup ground walnuts

1/2 cup raisins, chocolate or carob chips, or tiny dried date pieces

 

Wet:

  • 1/2 cup light olive oil
  • 1 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp applesauce
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions:
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
  2. Combine the first group of dry ingredients, then stir in walnuts and raisins or chips.
  3. In a 2-cup liquid measuring cup, combine all wet ingredients in the order listed.  Emulsify with a fork and stir into dry ingredients.
  4. Scoop in small mounds on a cookie sheet and flatten to desired thickness.
  5. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
  6. Remove from oven and cool on a rack or eat warm with a glass of milk!

Notes:

I like to get the batter made and portioned onto the cookie sheet(s); preheat the oven; and bake them while everyone is eating their lunch.  It is a big hit to serve cookies warm from the oven.