Indulge guilt-free with these delicious Heart Smart Oatmeal Date Chocolate Cookies, a wholesome treat that combines heart-healthy ingredients with irresistible flavors. Made with fiber-rich rolled oats, nutrient-packed whole wheat flour, and naturally sweetened with honey and dates, these cookies are a nutritious twist on a classic favorite. The addition of dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) provides a rich and decadent touch, while a hint of cinnamon enhances the warm, comforting flavor profile. Unsweetened applesauce replaces some of the butter, cutting back on saturated fats, making this recipe a perfect choice for health-conscious bakers. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes and yielding 24 soft, chewy cookies, these are perfect for lunchbox treats or a satisfying snack on the go. Serve with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy pairing!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, unsweetened applesauce, honey, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth and well-combined.
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture. Stir gently until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
Fold in the chopped dates, dark chocolate chips, and optional chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of the spoon.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
Remove cookies from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Calories |
4059 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 217.4 g | 279% | |
| Saturated Fat | 105.2 g | 526% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 478 mg | 159% | |
| Sodium | 2574 mg | 112% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 489.5 g | 178% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 69.2 g | 247% | |
| Total Sugars | 236.7 g | ||
| Protein | 75.8 g | 152% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 445 mg | 34% | |
| Iron | 35.1 mg | 195% | |
| Potassium | 3382 mg | 72% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.