Soft and Chewy 4-Ingredient Applesauce Cookies Recipe

Updated on

Applesauce Cookies

Dessert

Image: Fito Recipes

5.0 from 4 votes

Satisfy your sweet tooth guilt-free with these soft and chewy 4-ingredient applesauce cookies! These delicious applesauce cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients and provide a soft, chewy texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack, breakfast, or healthy dessert, these cookies are a must-try.

These cookies are perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet yet wholesome. Made with just four simple ingredients, they’re a breeze to whip up and deliver big on flavor without compromising on nutrition. For more inspiration, check out our latest guide on how to make the perfect Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake and explore a fresh, healthy take on the Ultimate Mediterranean Wrap. These delicious recipes will elevate your kitchen game and bring variety to your meals! Pair them with a treat from our Dessert Category for a complete indulgence.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a lunchbox addition, or a post-workout energy boost, these cookies are the ideal choice. Have questions about healthy desserts or substitutions? Check out this helpful Quora discussion to get answers and tips from experts and enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Applesauce Cookies Recipe

These cookies are a fantastic alternative to traditional high-sugar baked goods. With applesauce as a natural sweetener, they are a great option for those looking to reduce processed sugars without sacrificing taste. Their soft and chewy texture makes them perfect for kids and adults alike, and the quick preparation time ensures you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re following a specific dietary plan, meal prepping, or just want a delicious treat, these applesauce cookies are a must-try!

Another great thing about these cookies is their portability. Whether you need a snack for work, school, or a post-workout pick-me-up, they are easy to pack and store. Pair them with a smoothie for breakfast, a coffee for an afternoon treat, or simply enjoy them on their own. The balanced combination of fiber, protein, and natural sugars will help keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened for a healthier option)
  • 1 cup oats (rolled oats or quick oats work best)
  • 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/4 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract for added depth of flavor
Applesauce Cookies

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Combine ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, add the applesauce, oats, nut butter, and honey or maple syrup. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined into a sticky batter.
  3. Add mix-ins – If using optional add-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or spices, fold them into the batter at this stage.
  4. Portion the dough – Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop generous spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure there’s enough space between each cookie for slight spreading.
  5. Shape the cookies – Flatten each cookie gently with the back of a spoon to form even rounds.
  6. Bake – Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges.
  7. Cool and enjoy – Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

  • Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator – Keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Freezer-Friendly – Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating Tip – Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for a freshly baked taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

CaloriesProteinCarbsFat
1203g18g4g

Quality Tools for This Recipe

  1. Silicone Baking Mat – Ensures even baking and prevents sticking without the need for additional grease.
  2. Cookie Scoop – Perfect for evenly portioning out cookie dough.
  3. Mixing Bowl Set – Ideal for combining ingredients with ease.

Seasonal Dessert Pairings

These cookies pair perfectly with seasonal favorites:

  • Spring: Fresh fruit salad or a berry yogurt parfait.
  • Summer: Homemade banana ice cream or a chilled smoothie.
  • Fall: Pumpkin spice latte or warm cinnamon apples.
  • Winter: Hot cocoa or a spiced chai latte.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

How do I make these cookies crispier?

For a crispier texture, bake the cookies for an extra 2-3 minutes or reduce the applesauce slightly.

Can I add protein powder to these cookies?

Yes! You can mix in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder to make them even more nutritious.

Are these cookies good for kids?

Absolutely! They are naturally sweetened, soft, and a great alternative to processed snacks.

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

No, steel-cut oats won’t soften properly in this recipe. Stick to rolled or quick oats for the best texture.

Soft and Chewy 4-Ingredient Applesauce Cookies Recipe

Recipe by Chef Walter
5.0 from 4 votes
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

15

minutes
Calories

120

kcal

Soft, chewy, and healthy, these 4-ingredient applesauce cookies are a quick and guilt-free treat! Perfect for snacks, breakfast, or dessert.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup applesauce (unsweetened for a healthier option)

  • 1 cup oats (rolled oats or quick oats work best)

  • 1/2 cup nut butter (peanut butter or almond butter)

  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)

  • Optional Add-ins
  • 1/4 cup raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts

  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract for added depth of flavor

Directions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the applesauce, oats, nut butter, and honey or maple syrup until a sticky batter forms.
  • Fold in optional add-ins like raisins, chocolate chips, or cinnamon for added flavor.
  • Scoop out spoonfuls of the mixture and drop them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for slight spreading.
  • Flatten each cookie gently with the back of a spoon to form even rounds.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and golden around the edges.
  • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

These 4-Ingredient Applesauce Cookies are an excellent choice for a quick, healthy, and satisfying treat. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also offer a great way to introduce kids and adults alike to healthier homemade treats. Plus, they are naturally gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence! They’re soft, naturally sweet, and made with whole ingredients that will leave you feeling good about your snack choices. Whether you’re enjoying them with a morning coffee, packing them for a midday pick-me-up, or serving them as a dessert, they’re a versatile and nutritious option.

Looking to explore more healthy desserts? Check out our Dessert Category and get inspired by other delicious, wholesome treats. Happy baking!

Did you try this recipe? Let us know in the comments below!

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