These strawberry cookies are a delightful and nutritious treat, requiring just four simple ingredients. With a thick and chewy texture, these cookies are packed with the luscious flavor of fresh berries and can be baked in just 12 minutes.
Why Strawberry Cookies?
Strawberry desserts often don’t get the credit they deserve. Adding fresh strawberries to baked goods imparts a lovely fruity essence and enhances the overall strawberry flavor. These strawberry cookies, inspired by blueberry oatmeal and classic oatmeal cookies, have become an instant hit in my kitchen. They are perfect for utilizing pantry staples or for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or baby showers.
Recipe Highlights:
- Only four ingredients: oats, peanut butter, banana, and strawberries.
- No eggs or butter: Despite skipping these traditional ingredients, the cookies maintain a soft and chewy texture.
- No chill time: These cookies can be prepared and baked immediately.
- Perfect for breakfast: Featuring wholesome ingredients, these cookies are suitable for any meal, from breakfast to dessert.
Ingredients:
- Rolled oats: Provides a chewy texture; opt for gluten-free rolled oats for a gluten-free version.
- Almond butter: Smooth and creamy, with no added sugar; substitute with peanut, cashew, tahini, or sunflower seed butter.
- Banana: Adds moisture and natural sweetness; unsweetened applesauce can be a substitute.
- Strawberries: Finely chopped for even distribution within the cookies; reserve some for topping.
- Chocolate Chips: Optional but a delightful addition; white chocolate chips work well.
- Vanilla extract: Optional but recommended.
- Salt: A pinch to balance sweetness.
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 175C/350F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or use a Silpat cookie sheet. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except for chocolate chips. Stir well. Fold in chocolate chips with a rubber spatula.
Step 3: Form 16 small dough balls and place them on the lined tray. Press each ball into a cookie shape. Top with extra chocolate chips if desired. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden on the edges.
Step 4: Allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Tips for the Best Cookies:
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft center.
- Adjust sweetness by adding liquid stevia, sugar, or maple syrup.
- Chill the dough for thicker cookies.
- Enhance strawberry flavor with a dash of lemon juice.
- Experiment with nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes for texture.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerate leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze cookies in a bag for up to 6 months.
FAQs:
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain excess moisture.
- Can I use different fruits? Yes, other berries or fruits work well.
- Do I need to chill the dough? No, it’s not necessary.
- Can I make these in advance? Best enjoyed fresh due to ingredients that may dry out over time.
Storage Instructions:
- For optimal freshness, store these eggless strawberry cookies in the refrigerator. Place leftover cookies in a sealed container and refrigerate until you’re ready to indulge. They can be kept fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezing Instructions:
- To extend the shelf life, freeze any leftover cookies by placing them in a ziplock bag. These cookies can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.