Amazing Low Fat Applesauce Cookies: Quick & Easy!

Ever get that cookie craving but want to keep it healthy? I have been there. That's where these low fat applesauce cookies come in, they're a game-changer. Forget those recipes loaded with butter and oil. These cookies are not only super easy to make with just a few ingredients, but they are also incredibly delicious. We're talking soft, chewy, and satisfying, all while being kind to your waistline. This recipe is so simple, even a kid could make it, and honestly, I sometimes feel like one when I'm in the kitchen! In this article, we'll walk through exactly how to whip up these fantastic treats, give you some tips and tricks to make them perfect every time, and answer all your burning questions about storage and more. Plus, if you're feeling adventurous, I'll point you to some similar recipes. Get ready to bake some guilt-free goodness with the best low fat applesauce cookies ever!

Low Fat Applesauce Cookie Recipe

Okay, so let's talk about the star of the show: the low fat applesauce cookie recipe. It’s almost unbelievable how simple this is. You only need four things: rolled oats, that's the base, some sweetened applesauce, which adds moisture and sweetness, peanut butter for a bit of richness, and a dash of cinnamon for that warm, cozy flavor. That’s it! No eggs, no butter, no oil – just those four ingredients that come together to make magic. I remember the first time I made these, I was so surprised at how good they were. It felt like a cheat, eating something so tasty and knowing it was actually pretty good for me. It’s like a little victory dance in my kitchen every time I bake them.

Making Your Low Fat Applesauce Cookies: Tips and Tricks

Alright, so you've got your ingredients ready, now let's get to the fun part: actually making these low fat applesauce cookies. First off, make sure your oats are rolled, not steel-cut. Rolled oats are key for that perfect chewy texture. Also, don't skimp on the cinnamon; it really does make a difference. When mixing, I find it easiest to use a good old-fashioned mixing bowl and a sturdy spoon. I like to mix everything until it's just combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, and we definitely don't want that. The dough will be a bit sticky, that's totally normal. I've tried using a stand mixer, but honestly, a spoon works just as well and saves on washing up.

Now, for the baking part. I always recommend lining your baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. I've had a few meltdowns when I forgot the parchment paper, trust me, it's worth it. When scooping the dough, I use a tablespoon measure to get them roughly the same size. This helps them bake evenly. Gently flatten them with the back of your spoon; they won’t spread much on their own. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them, baking times can vary. The center might still look a little soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Let them sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart.

Storing Your Low Fat Applesauce Cookies and FAQs

How to Keep Your Cookies Fresh

Okay, so you've baked a batch of these amazing low fat applesauce cookies, and now you're wondering how to keep them fresh, right? I get it. No one wants a stale cookie. The good news is, they store pretty well! For short-term storage, like if you're planning to eat them within a few days, just pop them into an airtight container. I like using a glass container because it seems to keep them a bit softer, but any airtight container will do. Keep them at room temperature, and they’ll stay delicious for about 3-5 days. If you live in a warmer climate or your kitchen gets a bit toasty, you might want to consider storing them in the fridge. The fridge will help them last a bit longer, but they might lose a little bit of that soft texture.

Can You Freeze Applesauce Cookies?

What if you baked way too many, or you want to save some for later? No problem, these low fat applesauce cookies freeze like a dream. I often make a double batch just so I can freeze half. To freeze them, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. I like to layer them with parchment paper between each cookie to prevent them from sticking together. They can last in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you're ready to eat them, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds. It's like having freshly baked cookies whenever you want!

Frequently Asked Questions

Let's tackle some of the common questions I get about these low fat applesauce cookies. One question I hear a lot is, "Can I use unsweetened applesauce?" Yes, you can! If you do, you may want to add a touch of sweetener like honey or maple syrup to the dough. Another question is, "Can I use different nut butter?" Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can be used as a substitute. If you don't have peanut butter, just make sure it's a nut butter that you like. Some people also ask, "Can I add mix-ins?" Absolutely, dark chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or even shredded coconut are great additions. It's your cookie, get creative! I always say, baking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you!

More Recipes Like Low Fat Applesauce Cookies

Oatmeal Raisin Applesauce Cookies

Okay, so you're digging the whole low fat applesauce cookie thing, but maybe you're craving a little variety? I totally get that. Let's talk about oatmeal raisin applesauce cookies. These are like the cousin of our basic recipe, and they're just as easy to whip up. You'll start with the same base—rolled oats, applesauce, and a touch of cinnamon—but we're adding some plump raisins and a little extra spice, like nutmeg or allspice. The raisins add a nice chewiness, and the extra spices make them feel like a warm hug in cookie form. I love making these when I want something a little different but still easy and healthy. They’re also great for breakfast!

Applesauce and Banana Cookies

Another fun twist is adding a banana to the mix. Applesauce and banana cookies are a fantastic option if you’ve got some ripe bananas hanging around. Think of it as a naturally sweet and moist upgrade. You’ll mash a ripe banana and combine it with your usual applesauce, oats, and cinnamon. The banana adds extra sweetness and a soft, almost cake-like texture. These are perfect when you want a slightly denser cookie. I often throw in a handful of chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch. It’s amazing how just one banana can transform a simple cookie into something really special. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those overripe bananas!

• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Add raisins and nutmeg/allspice
• Applesauce Banana Cookies: Mash in a ripe banana
• Chocolate Chip Applesauce Cookies: Mix in dark chocolate chips

Chocolate Chip Applesauce Cookies

And for all you chocolate lovers out there, you can't go wrong with chocolate chip applesauce cookies. They're a crowd-pleaser, and it's super easy to add some dark chocolate chips to our base recipe. The bitterness of the dark chocolate pairs so well with the sweetness of the applesauce and cinnamon. It’s like a little party in your mouth! I like to use mini chocolate chips so that they are evenly distributed throughout the cookies. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra touch of flavor. These are the perfect cookies for when you need a little chocolate fix. I mean, who doesn't love a good chocolate chip cookie, right?

Wrapping Up Your Low Fat Applesauce Cookie Journey

So, there you have it—a simple, delicious, and healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth! These low fat applesauce cookies aren't just a recipe; they're a solution for those moments when you want a treat without the guilt. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, the ease of this recipe makes it a winner. From the basic ingredients to the fun mix-ins, this cookie is yours to play with. Don't forget to store them properly so you can enjoy them for days, or freeze them for a future craving. Now go on, get baking! And if you try any fun variations, let me know; I'm always up for new ideas.