Making Cookies from Leftover Oats: A Delicious Way to Reduce Waste
Do you ever find yourself with a bag of oats sitting in your pantry, unsure of what to do with them? Maybe you bought them with the best of intentions, planning to make healthy breakfasts, but now they’re just taking up space. Or perhaps you’re left with a handful of oats from a recipe, and it’s not enough for your morning porridge. Don’t let them go to waste! Today, I’m here to share a delicious, simple solution: making cookies from leftover oats.
We often overlook oats as a versatile ingredient, but they are a fantastic base for cookies. Not only do they add a lovely texture and a nutty flavor, but they’re also packed with health benefits. Oats are high in fiber, can help lower cholesterol levels, and are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. By turning your leftover oats into cookies, you’re not just treating yourself to a delicious snack; you’re also making a healthier choice.
Now, let’s get into how you can transform those forgotten oats into scrumptious cookies with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of leftover oats (if your oats are large or whole, consider pulsing them a bit in a food processor for a finer texture)
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free version, use almond or oat flour)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted (for a dairy-free version, use coconut oil)
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar (you can use white sugar, but brown sugar adds a nice depth of flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (this enhances the flavor of the cookies)
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder (this helps our cookies get a nice lift and texture)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- Optional: 1/2 cup of mix-ins such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit (use whatever you have on hand or prefer)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure they brown nicely.
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Mix the dry ingredients (oats, flour, baking powder, and salt) in a large bowl. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
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Combine the wet ingredients in a separate bowl. Whisk together the melted butter (or coconut oil), brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies to be tender, not tough.
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Add your mix-ins (if using). Fold in your chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit gently.
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Shape your cookies. Using a spoon or your hands, form the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down on the balls to flatten them slightly. Remember, they will spread a bit as they bake, so leave some space between each cookie.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown. The timing may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
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Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the hardest part: waiting to eat them!
And there you have it—a simple, delicious way to use up leftover oats and reduce food waste. These cookies are perfect for a quick snack, a treat for lunch boxes, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
By making these oat cookies, you are not only indulging in a sweet treat but also making a positive step towards more sustainable eating habits. It’s a small but meaningful way to make the most out of what you have, proving that with a little creativity, we can reduce waste and enjoy our food to the fullest. Happy baking!
