Discover the ultimate guilt-free treat that combines nutrition, flavor, and simplicity! These carrot cookies are a game-changer for health-conscious snack lovers, packed with natural sweetness, protein, and essential nutrients. Perfect for those avoiding refined sugars and gluten, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delectable, energy-boosting treat that will become your new favorite wholesome indulgence.
Ingredients
US Measurements
- Mixed nuts – 7 oz (200 g)
- Mixed seeds – 1 oz (30 g)
- Rolled oats – 7 oz (200 g)
- Dried apricots – 1.7 oz (50 g)
- Dried cranberries – 1 oz (30 g)
- Raisins – 1 oz (30 g)
- Honey – 5-6 tablespoons
- Dark chocolate (70% or higher) – 3-4 oz (optional)
- Orange zest – 1-2 teaspoons
- Salt – A pinch (optional)
- Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) – To taste
Metric Measurements
- Gemischte Nüsse – 200 g
- Gemischte Samen – 30 g
- Haferflocken – 200 g
- Getrocknete Aprikosen – 50 g
- Getrocknete Preiselbeeren – 30 g
- Rosinen – 30 g
- Honig – 5-6 Esslöffel
- Zartbitterschokolade – 85-115 g (optional)
- Orangenschale – 1-2 Teelöffel
- Salz – Eine Prise (optional)
- Gewürze – Nach Geschmack
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Finely chop mixed nuts
- Roughly chop dried fruits
- Zest one orange
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruits
- Add orange zest and spices
- Mix thoroughly
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Drizzle honey over the dry mixture
- Mix until all ingredients are well-coated and begin to stick together
- Shape Cookies:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
- Using clean hands, form small cookie-sized balls
- Gently press to create a cookie shape
- Optional: Create a slight indent in the center of each cookie
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle:
- Melt dark chocolate in a double boiler
- Drizzle melted chocolate over cookies
- Allow chocolate to set at room temperature
- Refrigerate:
- Place cookies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up
- Store in an airtight container
Nutritional Information
Per Cookie (Approximate):
- Calories: 110-130
- Protein: 3-4g
- Healthy Fats: 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugar: 5-6g (natural sugars from fruits and honey)
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 cookies
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Nut Consistency: Chop nuts finely for better cookie texture
- Honey Binding: Warm honey slightly for easier mixing
- Storage Tip: Keep cookies refrigerated to maintain firmness
- Customization: Adjust spices to personal preference
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Nut-Free Option: Replace nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin
- Vegan Adaptation: Use maple syrup instead of honey
- Flavor Variations:
- Add grated carrots for extra moisture
- Experiment with different spice blends
- Try alternative dried fruits
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are these cookies suitable for diabetics? While natural sugars are used, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Q2: Can I make these cookies completely sugar-free? Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener as a honey alternative.
Q3: How long do these cookies last? Refrigerated, they’ll stay fresh for 5-7 days.
Q4: Are these cookies good for weight loss? High in protein and healthy fats, they can be part of a balanced diet.
Q5: Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, freeze for up to 1 month in an airtight container.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
- Freezing: Separate layers with parchment paper
- Make-Ahead: Prepare dough in advance, refrigerate, and shape when ready to bake
Enjoy these nutrient-packed, naturally sweet cookies that prove healthy snacking can be absolutely delicious!