Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies
There’s something incredibly comforting about cookies—especially when they’re warm, chewy, and bursting with flavor. Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies marry the wholesome goodness of oats with the delightful sweetness of agave and honey, creating a cookie that is both satisfying and delicious. These cookies are perfect for a quick snack, a lunchbox treat, or even a cozy dessert with a glass of milk.
These cookies are not just any ordinary cookie; they are a healthier twist on a classic favorite. With the wholesome ingredients, you won’t feel guilty indulging in these treats. So, let’s dive into the world of Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies and discover why they might just become your new go-to recipe.
Why It’s My Go-To
The Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies are a staple in my baking repertoire for several reasons. Firstly, the combination of agave nectar and honey provides a unique sweetness that sets these cookies apart from traditional recipes. Secondly, the use of whole wheat pastry flour and oats adds a heartiness that makes them feel more nourishing. Finally, the versatility of adding M&M’s or raisins means you can customize these cookies to fit any occasion or preference. Each bite is a delightful mix of sweetness and texture that keeps you coming back for more.
What Goes Into Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies
Creating these delightful cookies requires a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons lightly beaten egg
- 3 tablespoons agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (or wheat germ)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon (heaping) ground cinnamon
- 1 cup old fashioned oats
- 1 cup M&M’s or raisins (more if desired)
Before You Start: Equipment
Before you embark on your cookie-making journey, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. You will need:
- Baking Sheet – A sturdy, non-stick baking sheet is ideal for even baking.
- Mixing Bowls – Use a large bowl for mixing wet ingredients and a separate bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk – Essential for mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Spoon or Cookie Scoop – For portioning out your cookie dough onto the baking sheet.
- Oven Mitts – Safety first! Protect your hands when pulling out hot trays.
Step-by-Step: Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies
Let’s get baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your very own Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden color.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten egg, agave nectar, honey, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the whole wheat pastry flour, ground flaxseed, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to be soft and chewy.
Step 5: Add Oats and M&M’s
Fold in the old fashioned oats and M&M’s (or raisins), ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delectable treats warm or at room temperature!
Tailor It to Your Diet
These Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies can easily be adapted to fit various dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Gluten-Free – Substitute the whole wheat pastry flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Dairy-Free – Ensure that your M&M’s or any chocolate chips used are dairy-free.
- Vegan – Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until thickened).
- Nut-Free – If you have nut allergies, double-check that all ingredients, especially M&M’s, are nut-free.
Author’s Commentary
The beauty of Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies lies in their adaptability and the delightful balance of flavors. I love how the sweetness of agave and honey complements the wholesome oats, making every bite feel like a little hug. The addition of M&M’s adds a fun, colorful touch, making these cookies perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress!
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you want to bake these cookies ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld even further. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough in individual portions. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly fresh cookies!
Helpful Q&A
Can I use different types of sweeteners instead of agave and honey?
Absolutely! You can experiment with maple syrup or brown sugar, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture and flavor slightly.
How do I store the leftover cookies?
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, consider freezing them.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or even coconut flakes to the dough to enhance the flavor and texture.
Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Flat cookies can happen if the dough is too warm or if insufficient flour is used. Make sure to measure flour correctly and chill the dough if needed.
That’s a Wrap
These Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies are a delightful blend of health and indulgence. With their chewy texture and sweet bursts of flavor, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking collection. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a packed snack, these cookies will not disappoint. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these irresistible cookies today!
Agave and Honey Oatmeal M&M Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and develop that perfect golden color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lightly beaten egg, agave nectar, honey, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the whole wheat pastry flour, ground flaxseed, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients until they are evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to be soft and chewy.
- Fold in the old fashioned oats and M&M's (or raisins), ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these delectable treats warm or at room temperature!
Notes
- Substitute whole wheat flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Ensure M&M's or chocolate chips are dairy-free for a dairy-free version.
- Prepare dough ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
