Banana Raisin Cookies

Persian Banana Raisin Cookies Recipe with Spelt and Rolled Oats

Region / culture: Persia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Banana Raisin Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas and raisins with the wholesome goodness of whole wheat flour and oatmeal. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional cookies, as it is free from refined sugars and fats. These cookies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them an excellent snack for any time of the day.

History

The concept of combining bananas and raisins in baked goods has been around for decades, originating from a time when people started looking for healthier alternatives to sweet treats. The use of whole wheat flour and oatmeal in cookies became popular in the health-conscious circles of the 1970s and has since evolved into various recipes, including this delightful Banana Raisin Cookies recipe. This particular recipe is a modern take on those early health-oriented baked goods, optimized for both nutrition and taste.

Ingredients

1 cup spelt or whole wheat flour
1 cup rolled oats (oatmeal), ground
0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup raisins
2 medium-sized bananas
0.5 cup pitted dates
0.5 cup apple juice

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, mix together the Spelt or whole wheat flour and ground rolled oats (oatmeal). (You can grind the rolled oats in a blender on high speed, ensuring that the container is dry before grinding.) Add the nutmeg and mix well. Add the Raisins and mix thoroughly to coat them with the flour mixture.
In the container of a high-speed blender, combine the apple juice, bananas, and dates. Cover and blend at high speed until smooth.
Add approximately 0.75 of the banana-date mixture to the flour mixture and mix thoroughly using a stiff spatula or spoon. Gradually add more of the liquid mixture until the desired consistency is reached. If the cookie dough is too stiff, you can add more apple juice. A thinner dough will result in flatter cookies, while a stiff dough will yield thicker, irregular cookies like the ones shown in the photo. (To test the dough's stiffness, insert a soup spoon upright into the dough. If it remains upright, the dough is stiff enough.)
On a non-stick or lightly oiled baking sheet, place the cookie dough in twelve equal-sized mounds. Use a spoon or spatula to smooth and shape each cookie as desired.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes. Since ovens may vary, we recommend checking the cookies after 20 minutes of baking. The cookies should be firm but not hard. Avoid over-baking. Once the banana raisin cookies are baked, remove them from the oven, let them cool, and enjoy.

Variations

Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Mix in a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and richness.
Substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or cherries for a different taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Banana Raisin Cookies turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture.

- If your dates are a bit hard, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before blending.

- For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

- To add a bit of crunch, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts to the dough.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect as a standalone snack or paired with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent treat, serve them with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses baking as the primary cooking technique, which is ideal for creating a soft yet slightly chewy texture in the cookies. Blending the wet ingredients ensures a smooth distribution throughout the dough, contributing to the cookies' consistent texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegan version, ensure your apple juice is certified vegan.

- Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.

- If you don't have apple juice, orange juice or any plant-based milk can be used as a liquid base.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the shaped cookies on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag, baking them straight from the freezer with an additional few minutes of baking time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these cookies on a rustic wooden board for a charming, homey presentation. Garnish the serving plate with fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of oatmeal or ground nutmeg for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Banana Raisin Cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages such as herbal teas, hot cocoa, or a latte. For a refreshing contrast, try them with a cold glass of almond milk or a smoothie.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. There's no need to reheat them, but if you prefer them warm, a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each Banana Raisin Cookie contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a relatively low-calorie option for a snack or dessert, especially when compared to traditional cookies.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Banana Raisin Cookies contains approximately 27 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are whole wheat flour, oatmeal, bananas, and raisins. These are complex carbohydrates that provide a steady release of energy, unlike the simple sugars found in many traditional cookies.

Fats

These cookies are low in fat, with each serving containing about 0.5 grams of fat. The minimal fat content comes naturally from the whole ingredients used, such as the oatmeal and whole wheat flour, making these cookies an excellent option for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

Each serving of Banana Raisin Cookies provides approximately 3 grams of protein. The protein comes from the whole wheat flour and oatmeal, contributing to the satiety and nutritional value of the cookies.

Vitamins and minerals

Banana Raisin Cookies are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including potassium from bananas, iron and magnesium from raisins, and various B vitamins from whole wheat flour and oatmeal. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining good health.

Alergens

The main allergens to be aware of in this recipe are gluten (from whole wheat flour) and potentially oats. For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats can be used as substitutes.

Summary

Banana Raisin Cookies are a nutritious and delicious snack option. They are low in fat and calories, contain no refined sugars, and provide a good source of complex carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. These cookies are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Summary

Banana Raisin Cookies are a delightful, nutritious treat perfect for any occasion. With their wholesome ingredients and customizable options, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional cookies without sacrificing flavor. Whether you're enjoying them as a snack, dessert, or breakfast on the go, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings and provide a nutritious boost to your day.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Banana Raisin Cookies. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning to navigate my way around the kitchen. My grandmother, a wonderful cook herself, had given me a small recipe book filled with her favorite recipes. As I flipped through the pages, one particular recipe caught my eye - Banana Raisin Cookies.

I had always loved the combination of bananas and raisins, so I was excited to give this recipe a try. I carefully followed the instructions, mixing the mashed bananas with the flour, sugar, and raisins to create a dough. I dropped spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet and popped them into the oven, eagerly anticipating the delicious treats that would emerge.

When the timer finally went off and I opened the oven door, the smell that wafted out was heavenly. The cookies had spread out and turned a beautiful golden brown, with plump raisins peeking out from the edges. I couldn't wait to taste them.

I took a bite of the warm, chewy cookie and was immediately transported to a world of flavor. The sweetness of the bananas paired perfectly with the slight tartness of the raisins, creating a truly delectable treat. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

As I grew older and honed my cooking skills, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations. Sometimes I would throw in a handful of chopped walnuts for extra crunch, or drizzle the cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice. No matter how I changed it up, the basic recipe always remained the same - bananas, raisins, and a few simple ingredients blended together to create a mouthwatering cookie.

I soon became known among my family and friends as the "cookie queen," always ready to whip up a batch of Banana Raisin Cookies at a moment's notice. Whether it was for a special occasion or just a casual get-together, these cookies were always a hit.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with countless people, passing it down from one generation to the next. Each time I make a batch of Banana Raisin Cookies, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that cooking brings me. There is something truly special about creating something delicious with your own two hands and sharing it with others.

As I sit here now, writing down the story of how I learned to make these cookies, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful memories that this recipe has brought me. From that first batch I made as a young girl to the countless trays I have baked since, each cookie has been a little taste of happiness.

I hope that whoever reads this story will feel inspired to try their hand at making Banana Raisin Cookies themselves. It may just become a favorite recipe in their kitchen, just as it has in mine. And who knows, maybe one day they will pass it on to the next generation, creating their own cherished memories along the way. Cooking is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful every day for the joy it has brought into my life.