Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Vegan oatmeal cookies are a delicious and healthy treat that caters to both the sweet tooth and the health-conscious eater. These cookies are perfect for anyone looking for a plant-based snack, offering the hearty texture of oats and a natural sweetness from bananas and dried fruits. They are easy to prepare and involve simple, wholesome ingredients. The blend of nuts, seeds, and fruits provides a rich source of nutrients and energy. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a post-workout nibble, these cookies are versatile and satisfying. They can easily be customized to suit personal taste preferences or dietary needs. These cookies are not only vegan but also gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats. They offer a delightful crunch and a chewy center, making them irresistible. Enjoy them on their own, or pair them with a warm beverage for a cozy treat. They can be stored for several days, making them a convenient snack to have on hand.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Peanuts - 1 cup, roasted and cooled
• Rolled oats - 2 cups
• Coconut milk - 50 ml
• Bananas - 2 ripe
• Chia seeds - 2 tablespoons
• Goji berries - 1/4 cup
• Dried plums - 1/4 cup
• Dried cranberries - 1/4 cup
• Optional: Other nuts and seeds such as pumpkin seeds and pine nuts

Preparation Time

60 minutes total, including preparation and cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Roast the Peanuts: Begin by roasting the peanuts on a medium flame until they are golden and fragrant. Let them cool completely before using.
2. Prepare the Chia Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the chia seeds with a few tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency.
3. Blend Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the roasted peanuts, rolled oats, dried plums, and dried cranberries. Blend until you reach a coarse texture.
4. Add Bananas: Peel the bananas and add them to the blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth. If needed, scrape down the sides of the blender to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
5. Incorporate Coconut Milk: Gradually add the coconut milk into the mixture while blending, ensuring the mixture doesn't become too runny.
6. Fold in Chia Gel and Goji Berries: Transfer the blended mixture into a large mixing bowl. Gently fold in the chia gel and goji berries using a spatula.
7. Mix and Form Cookie Dough: Add rolled oats to the mixture and stir until well combined. The dough should be firm enough to hold its shape.
8. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
9. Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Flatten them slightly to form cookie shapes.
10. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
11. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Store: Once completely cool, store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Tips

• Substitutions: Swap peanuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile.
• Texture Variations: For a chewier texture, use softer dried fruits or more coconut milk.
• Add Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for an enhanced aroma and taste.
• Serving Size: This recipe can be doubled or halved depending on the number of cookies needed.

Nutritions

• Calories: ~150 per cookie
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 7g
• Carbs: 20g
• Fiber: 4g

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with sunflower seeds for those with nut allergies.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup or agave nectar for extra sweetness if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy with a glass of almond or oat milk for a complete vegan treat.
• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint for a soothing combination.

Best Places

1. Loving Hut - A global vegan restaurant chain with delicious plant-based offerings. Location: 9225 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, USA.
2. Plant Café Organic - Known for its locally sourced and organic ingredients. Location: 101 California St, San Francisco, USA.
3. Café Gratitude - A charming spot offering a menu full of fresh, organic vegan fare. Location: 300 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
4. Ginger's Café - A cozy vegan café with homemade delights. Location: 3 Upper Orwell St, Ipswich, UK.
5. Herbivore - Offers a diverse selection of global vegan dishes. Location: Jalan Raya Basangkasa No. 25, Bali, Indonesia.
6. Kind Kitchen by Green Common - A modern eatery with innovative plant-based cuisine. Location: 14/F, 1 Great George Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
7. Vantra Vitao - A vibrant vegan restaurant known for its healthy options. Location: 5 Wardour St, Soho, London, UK.
8. The Vegan Club - Specializes in nutritious and delicious vegan meals. Location: Via Antonio Cecchi, 22, Rome, Italy.
9. The Greenhouse Café - An eco-conscious café with delightful vegan options. Location: 104 Finniss St, Adelaide, Australia.
10. Moksa Plant-based Café & Permaculture Garden - Boasts a unique plant-to-plate experience. Location: Sayan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia.

Enjoy making these delightful cookies and enriching your taste buds with each bite!