Looking for a chewy, wholesome, and naturally sweetened cookie? These Cranberry Walnut Oatmeal Cookies are packed with hearty oats, tart cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and bright lemon zest, making them a perfect snack, breakfast treat, or dessert!
These soft and chewy cookies have no refined sugar and are packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Naturally Sweetened – Uses dates and cranberries for natural sweetness.
✔ High in Fiber & Nutrients – Packed with oats, walnuts, and dried fruit.
✔ Chewy & Flavorful – A delicious blend of citrus, nuts, and berries.
✔ No Refined Sugar – A healthier alternative to store-bought cookies!
📌 Ingredients (Makes 8-10 Cookies)
🥣 For the Cookies:
- 1 cup oats (90g)
- 50g dried cranberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts (30g)
- ¼ cup chopped dates (35g)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (30g)
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for warmth.
✔ Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for variety.
✔ Use dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist!
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Baking Sheet
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
2️⃣ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
💡 Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy!
🥣 Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Oats
- Cranberries
- Lemon zest
- Chopped walnuts
- Chopped dates
2️⃣ Stir well to distribute ingredients evenly.
💡 For extra lemon flavor, add a splash of lemon juice!
🥄 Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
1️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Egg
- Melted butter
2️⃣ Stir until fully combined.
💡 For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter.
🍪 Step 4: Combine & Shape the Cookies
1️⃣ Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well.
2️⃣ Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
3️⃣ Using the back of a spoon, flatten each cookie slightly.
💡 Want crispier cookies? Flatten them more before baking!
🔥 Step 5: Bake to Perfection
1️⃣ Bake for 30 minutes, or until cookies are golden brown and firm.
2️⃣ Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
💡 For softer cookies, bake for 25 minutes instead of 30.
🍽️ Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
- Pair with tea, coffee, or a glass of almond milk.
- Serve with Greek yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast.
💡 Meal Prep Tip: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: ~40 minutes
- Calories: ~120 kcal per cookie
- Servings: 8-10 cookies
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Vegan – Swap egg for flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
✔ Lower Sugar Option – Reduce cranberries & dates slightly.
✔ Extra Crunch? Add pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
✔ Gluten-Free? Use certified gluten-free oats.
❓ FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Store at room temperature for 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Can I substitute other dried fruit?
Absolutely! Try raisins, apricots, or figs instead of cranberries and dates.
Can I make these cookies crispier?
Yes! Flatten them more and bake for 5 extra minutes.