Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are a comforting and practical way to start the day. I like having something ready that feels filling, lightly sweet, and made with simple ingredients.
These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with oats that keep you satisfied. I usually eat them for breakfast, grab one as a snack, or enjoy them with coffee when mornings feel rushed.
They are not overly sweet, which makes them perfect for everyday eating. Once you bake a batch, they easily become part of your weekly routine.
Quick Recipe Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies |
| Servings | 12 cookies |
| Calories (per cookie) | Approximately 140 |
| Protein | About 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | About 20 grams |
| Fat | About 5 grams |
| Fiber | About 3 grams |
| Gluten-Free | Yes, with gluten-free oats |
| Vegan | Yes |
| Dairy-Free | Yes |
| Refined Sugar-Free | Yes |
| Kid-Friendly | Yes |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- These cookies are made with simple pantry ingredients that are easy to find. They do not require fancy tools or baking experience.
- They are filling and satisfying thanks to oats and healthy fats. One or two cookies can keep you full for hours.
- The sweetness is mild and balanced, making them perfect for breakfast. They feel nourishing rather than heavy.
- The recipe is flexible and easy to customize. You can change add-ins based on taste or what you have at home.
- They fit many dietary needs without complicated swaps. This makes them great for families and meal planning.
Ingredients to Make Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
These cookies are made with a balanced mix of dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and wholesome add-ins. Each component works together to create cookies that are soft, chewy, and satisfying.
Quick Oats – 1 ½ cups
Quick oats help create a softer texture and allow the cookies to hold together well. They absorb moisture quickly and make the cookies tender.
Old-Fashioned Oats – ¾ cup
Old-fashioned oats add structure and a hearty bite. They give the cookies a more satisfying chew.
Oat Flour or Whole Wheat Flour – 1 cup
Oat flour helps bind the dough while keeping the cookies light. Whole wheat flour can be used for a slightly nuttier taste and added fiber.
Ground Golden Flax, Chia Seeds, or Regular Flax – ¼ cup
These ground seeds add fiber and healthy fats. They also help absorb moisture, which keeps the cookies soft.
Ground Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons
Cinnamon adds warmth and depth of flavor. It pairs well with oats and apples.
Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon
Baking powder helps the cookies rise slightly. It keeps them from becoming too dense.
Fine Sea Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Salt balances the sweetness in the cookies. It enhances the overall flavor.
Applesauce – ½ cup
Applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture. It helps reduce the need for excess fat.
Maple Syrup – ½ cup
Maple syrup provides gentle sweetness without refined sugar. It also helps keep the cookies soft.
Melted Coconut Oil or Butter – 4 tablespoons
This adds richness and moisture to the dough. Coconut oil keeps the cookies dairy-free, while butter adds a classic flavor.
Large Eggs – 2
Eggs help bind all the ingredients together. They also add structure and protein.
Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
Vanilla enhances the overall flavor. It adds a subtle sweetness and aroma.
Shredded Apple – ½ cup
Shredded apple adds moisture and natural sweetness. It also gives the cookies a soft texture.
Dried Cranberries – ½ cup
Cranberries add a chewy texture and a slightly tart flavor. They balance the sweetness of the dough.
Chopped Walnuts – ½ cup
Walnuts add crunch and richness. They also provide healthy fats and texture contrast.
Steps to Make Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
These cookies are simple to prepare when you follow each step carefully. Taking time with mixing helps create the perfect texture.
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
Add the quick oats, old-fashioned oats, flour, ground seeds, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt to a large bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
This step ensures the spices and leavening are distributed evenly. Even mixing prevents uneven texture later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, maple syrup, melted coconut oil or butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and fully blended.
The mixture should look glossy and uniform. Proper mixing helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until a thick and slightly sticky dough forms.
Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft. The dough should hold together without feeling dry.
Step 4: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Add the shredded apple, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts to the dough. Fold gently until evenly distributed.
This step adds texture and flavor throughout the cookies. Gentle folding keeps the dough light.
Step 5: Rest the Dough
Let the dough sit for a few minutes before shaping. This allows the oats to absorb moisture.
Resting improves texture and prevents dry cookies. The dough will become easier to scoop.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Scoop equal portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Lightly press each cookie to flatten.
These cookies do not spread much while baking. Shaping them helps control size and thickness.
Step 7: Bake Until Set
Bake until the cookies feel firm around the edges and soft in the center. The tops should look lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cooling helps the cookies set while staying chewy inside.
Serving Suggestions
These Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. I like eating them on their own with a cup of coffee or tea for a quick breakfast.
They also pair well with yogurt or a smoothie for a more filling option. You can spread a little nut butter on top for added protein and flavor.
For kids, they are perfect for lunchboxes or as an after-school snack. Adding a piece of fruit alongside makes it a complete mini-meal.
They can even be served warm from the oven with a drizzle of maple syrup. This makes them feel a little indulgent while still being wholesome.
Can We Make these Breakfast Cookies in Advance?
Yes, these cookies are great for meal prep and storing ahead of time. You can bake a batch and keep them in an airtight container for several days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
If you plan to prep the dough in advance, store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. You can then scoop and bake fresh cookies when you’re ready.
Pre-portioned dough balls also freeze well. This makes it easy to bake just a few cookies at a time without making the entire batch.
Cooking Tips
Use ripe bananas or applesauce to add natural sweetness and moisture. This keeps the cookies soft and reduces the need for extra sugar.
Measure the oats and flour accurately to maintain the right cookie texture. Too much flour can make cookies dry, while too few oats may make them too soft.
Do not overmix the dough once the wet and dry ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough instead of tender.
Flatten the cookies slightly before baking since they do not spread much in the oven. This ensures even cooking and a consistent shape.
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. It also prevents cookies from sticking to the tray.
Variations of Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
You can swap the dried cranberries for raisins, dried cherries, or even chopped dates. Each choice gives a slightly different flavor and sweetness level.
Try different nuts like almonds, pecans, or pistachios instead of walnuts. They all add crunch and extra nutrition.
Add a small handful of dairy-free chocolate chips for a slightly indulgent touch. This makes the cookies more appealing to kids or chocolate lovers.
You can experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon. It adds warmth and a unique flavor profile to the cookies.
Replace part of the applesauce with mashed pumpkin for a seasonal twist. This also increases fiber and makes the cookies extra moist.
Storage Instructions
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Make sure the container is sealed well to prevent them from drying out.
For longer storage, place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.
If freezing, separate layers of cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This also makes it easy to remove a few at a time without thawing the entire batch.
Refrigeration is optional but can extend their shelf life to about a week. Keep them covered to maintain softness and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg). Use coconut oil instead of butter to keep them fully vegan.
Can I use all quick oats or all old-fashioned oats?
You can, but the texture will change slightly. Quick oats make cookies softer, while old-fashioned oats give more chew. A mix balances texture and chewiness.
How can I make the cookies sweeter without refined sugar?
Add extra maple syrup, mashed banana, or small dried fruits like raisins or dates. These options keep it natural while adding moisture and flavor.
Can I add protein powder to these cookies?
Yes, a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder can be added. Reduce the flour slightly to maintain the right dough consistency.
Will the cookies be soft if I bake them longer?
They can become slightly crisp if overbaked. Bake until just firm around the edges and soft in the center for chewy results.
Conclusion
Homemade Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies are an easy, wholesome, and versatile option for any time of day. They combine oats, fruits, nuts, and natural sweeteners into a soft, chewy, and satisfying cookie.
You can enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a quick energy boost before workouts. The recipe is flexible, allowing you to swap mix-ins, flours, or spices to suit your preferences.
They are perfect for meal prep, freezing, and quick grab-and-go mornings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these cookies can become a staple in your kitchen.
