Nourish your cravings: Oatmeal date cookies done right
Oatmeal cookies are often baked with various sweet additions, such as chocolate or colourful sweets. In this form, they represent a compromise between an indulgent and a healthier snack. However, in this instance, there's no need to make concessions. Instead of adding extra sugar, consider using dried fruits, which are sweet but also packed with minerals, B vitamins, and fibre.
Dates are an excellent alternative to confectionery – similar to sweets, they contain a significant amount of calories and sugar, which the brain needs to function at high capacity. At the same time, they are rich in potassium, magnesium, copper, and iron, all of which support the nervous system, muscles, and bones. They enhance the body's immunity and help prevent anaemia. In 100 grams of dates, there are about 6-8 grams of fibre, which aids the digestive system and provides a feeling of fullness. The presence of antioxidants is also invaluable, as they reduce the risk of chronic diseases and cancer.
Date cookies – healthy but in moderation
Oatmeal cookies with the addition of dried dates and peanut butter are an energetic snack that is perfect not only for physically active individuals but also for those working mentally. In times of fatigue, such a sweet treat is invaluable. Furthermore, peanut butter and oatmeal lower the glycaemic index of dates, making one or two cookies less likely to cause a sudden spike in blood glucose.
However, it's important to maintain balance. If you lead a less active lifestyle or suffer from type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, be cautious about the quantity you consume.
The key to success lies in high-quality ingredients. Instead of quick oats, opt for less processed natural or traditional oats. Additionally, pay attention to the ingredients in the peanut butter, and if you have more time, consider making your own hazelnut or cashew spread.
Recipe for oatmeal cookies with dates
Before you start mixing the ingredients for the cookies, soak the dates in hot water and set them aside for 30 minutes. After this time, drain the water and place the soaked dates in a blender.
Ingredients:
- 200 grams of soaked pitted dried dates,
- 60 ml milk,
- 1 egg,
- 4 tablespoons of peanut butter,
- 1.5 cups of oatmeal,
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa,
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder,
- seeds from a vanilla pod or a teaspoon of vanilla paste,
- a pinch of salt.
Instructions:
- Blend the soaked dates with milk into a smooth paste.
- Transfer the paste to a large bowl. Add the egg, peanut butter, oatmeal, cocoa, baking powder, vanilla seeds (or paste), and a pinch of salt. Mix with a spoon to combine the ingredients.
- With damp hands, form small balls and flatten them into cookie shapes. Place them on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the cookies at 180 degrees Celsius (Gas Mark 4) for 15 minutes.
