Vegan Oatmeal Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 cups Rolled oats (Use gluten-free oats if necessary)
• 1 cup Whole wheat flour (Can substitute with oat flour for a gluten-free version)
• 1 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Cinnamon (Add more for extra flavor)
• 1/2 cup Maple syrup (Can substitute with agave nectar)
• 1/2 cup Unsweetened applesauce (Acts as a binder and adds moisture)
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Dark chocolate chips (Use vegan chocolate chips)
• 1/2 cup Chopped nuts (optional) (Walnuts or pecans work well)

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until well mixed.

3. 3

   In another bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract until combined.

4. 4

   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky.

5. 5

   Fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped nuts, if using.

6. 6

   Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. 7

   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

8. 8

   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.