Carrot Oatmeal Cookies

Carrot Oatmeal Cookies Recipe from USA | Ingredients: Eggs, Brown Sugar, Molasses, Olive Oil, Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Quick-Cooking Oats, Carrots, Raisins

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10-13 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Carrot oatmeal cookies are a delicious and nutritious treat that combines the sweetness of carrots with the heartiness of oats. These cookies are perfect for a snack or dessert, and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

History

The origins of carrot oatmeal cookies are not entirely clear, but it is likely that they were created as a way to incorporate more vegetables into baked goods. Carrots are a versatile ingredient that add natural sweetness and moisture to recipes, making them a popular choice for cookies.

Ingredients

2 eggs
0.5 cup packed brown sugar
0.5 cup molasses
0.33 cup virgin olive oil
1 cup flour
0.5 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp nutmeg
1.5 cup quick-cooking oats
1 cup fine grated carrots
1 cup raisins

How to prepare

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, brown sugar, milk, and oil.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, baking soda, and nutmeg. Add this mixture to the egg mixture and mix well.
Stir in the oats, carrots, and raisins.
Chill the mixture in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10 – 13 minutes.

Variations

Swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped apricots.
Add in a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch.
Drizzle the cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finishing touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely grate the carrots to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

- Chill the cookie dough before baking to help the cookies hold their shape and prevent spreading.

- Feel free to add in additional mix-ins such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these carrot oatmeal cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a satisfying snack or dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Chilling the cookie dough before baking helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable oil or melted butter in place of the olive oil.

- Gluten-free flour can be used in place of the whole wheat flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

These cookies pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of carrot oatmeal cookies contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Carrot oatmeal cookies are a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams.

Fats

Each serving of carrot oatmeal cookies contains about 8 grams of fat, primarily from the olive oil used in the recipe.

Proteins

These cookies provide around 3 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the eggs and oats in the recipe.

Vitamins and minerals

Carrot oatmeal cookies are a good source of vitamin A, thanks to the carrots. They also contain iron, calcium, and potassium.

Alergens

These cookies contain eggs and wheat, so they are not suitable for those with egg or gluten allergies.

Summary

Overall, carrot oatmeal cookies are a nutritious treat that provide a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Carrot oatmeal cookies are a delicious and nutritious treat that are perfect for snacking or dessert. Packed with carrots, oats, and raisins, these cookies are sure to be a hit with the whole family. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling from the trees and there was a chill in the air. I was visiting my dear friend Martha, who was an excellent cook and always had something delicious baking in her oven. On that particular day, the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled her cozy kitchen as she pulled a batch of Carrot Oatmeal Cookies out of the oven.

I watched in awe as Martha carefully scooped the warm cookies onto a plate and offered me one. As I took my first bite, the flavors exploded in my mouth – the sweetness of the carrots combined with the nuttiness of the oats and the warmth of the spices was a revelation. I had never tasted anything quite like it before.

I begged Martha for the recipe, and she graciously obliged. She explained that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I eagerly copied down the recipe in my worn recipe book, knowing that this would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work. The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled my own kitchen as I measured and mixed, my hands moving with practiced ease. As the cookies baked in the oven, I couldn't help but smile at the memories of that day with Martha.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. The house was filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked treats, and I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor.

As I bit into a warm Carrot Oatmeal Cookie, I was transported back to Martha's kitchen – the flavors were just as delicious as I remembered. The sweetness of the carrots paired perfectly with the hearty oats, and the spices added a comforting warmth that made me feel like I was wrapped in a cozy blanket.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a comforting treat to share with family and friends. Over the years, I have made these cookies countless times, always thinking back to that first day with Martha and feeling grateful for the gift of this recipe.

I have since shared the recipe with my own grandchildren, passing down not just the ingredients and measurements, but the memories and stories that make this recipe so special. I love seeing the joy on their faces as they bite into a warm Carrot Oatmeal Cookie, knowing that they are experiencing a small piece of my own history and tradition.

And so, every time I bake a batch of Carrot Oatmeal Cookies, I am reminded of that crisp autumn day with Martha, of the warmth and love that went into creating this recipe, and of the joy that comes from sharing something delicious with the ones you love.