Oatmeal cookies are a classic and delicious treat that is loved by many. They are not only tasty but also have some health benefits, especially when made with instant oatmeal. Instant oatmeal is a convenient and quick way to add whole grains to your diet, making it a great option for those looking to eat healthier. In this article, we will discuss how to make oatmeal cookies with instant oatmeal and explore some of the health benefits of this tasty treat.
To make oatmeal cookies with instant oatmeal, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup of instant oatmeal
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup of raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts (optional)
To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the instant oatmeal, flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. If desired, fold in the raisins, chocolate chips, or nuts.
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These oatmeal cookies are not only delicious but also have some health benefits. Instant oatmeal is a great source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods of time. It also contains beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Additionally, oatmeal is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
In addition to the health benefits of the oatmeal itself, these cookies can also be made healthier by using healthier ingredients. For example, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by using less sugar or substituting it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also add more nutritious mix-ins, such as dried fruit, nuts, or seeds, to increase the fiber and protein content of the cookies.
Overall, oatmeal cookies made with instant oatmeal are a tasty and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you are looking for a quick and easy snack or a healthier dessert option, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while also providing some health benefits. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious and nutritious treat today?.