Baking is an enjoyable cooking experience that’s usually synonymous with sweet biscuits or cakes. But have you ever tried making oatmeal cookies? Oatmeal cookies are a beloved treat that perfectly balance chewiness and crunch, making them a favorite for many people.
A fun fact, by incorporating coconut sugar into the mix, you can create a delicious twist on the classic recipe that offers a unique flavor and potential health benefits.
This article will guide you through a detailed recipe for coconut sugar oatmeal cookies, highlight the advantages of using coconut sugar over white sugar, list necessary ingredients and tools, and provide a step-by-step. This recipe makes the best coconut sugar oatmeal cookies that you ever have!
Why Choose Coconut Sugar for Oatmeal Cookies?
Coconut sugar is proven to have benefits that other sugars do not. No wonder many people make coconut sugar an alternative to sugar. Plus, there are now many organic coconut sugar suppliers. Here are some other reasons:
1. Health Benefits
Coconut sugar is often touted as a healthier alternative to white sugar. It has a lower glycemic index, which means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels, making it a better option for those who need to manage their blood sugar.
2. Nutritional Value
Coconut sugar retains some of the nutrients found in the coconut palm, including small amounts of iron, zinc, calcium, and potassium, as well as antioxidants. These nutrients are generally absent in refined white sugar.
3. Versatility in Baking
Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 replacement for white or brown sugar in most baking recipes, making it an easy substitute for those looking to make a healthier switch. Its rich flavor pairs well with other ingredients commonly found in oatmeal cookies, such as cinnamon, vanilla, and nuts.
4. Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly
Coconut sugar production is generally more sustainable compared to cane sugar. The process involves tapping the sap of the coconut palm, which can continue to produce sap for up to 20 years without the need for replanting. This sustainable method helps reduce the environmental impact associated with sugar production.
Recipe of Coconut Sugar Oatmeal Cookies
You can try this recipe at home, and the ingredients needed can easily be found. You can purchase them from Sari Coconut, a supplier from Indonesia that sells all coconut products. Here’s the recipe:
A. Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups coconut sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
B. Tools
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Cooling rack
C. Step
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and coconut sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Properly creaming the butter and sugar is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and optional spices (cinnamon and nutmeg). This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour.
5. Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Add the Oats and Optional Ingredients
Fold in the rolled oats and any optional ingredients like raisins or chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Scoop the Dough
Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Avoid overbaking, as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
9. Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Organic Coconut Sugar
- Lower glycemic index than regular sugar.
- Contains vital minerals.
- Providing a more nutrient-dense option than traditional sugars.
Why Using Coconut Sugar is Better Than White Sugar
Many people are starting to look for alternatives to white sugar, alternatives such as cane sugar, palm sugar or coconut sugar. Coconut sugar is the best choice compared to white sugar, this is proven by the many ingredients that white sugar does not have.
Here are some other reasons to consider coconut sugar vs white sugar:
1. Lower Glycemic Index
Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index (GI of 35) compared to white sugar (GI of around 60-65), leading to slower rises in blood sugar levels and preventing energy crashes.
2. Nutritional Content
Unlike white sugar, coconut sugar retains small amounts of nutrients such as iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants, providing more than just empty calories.
3. Inulin Content
Coconut sugar contains inulin, a dietary fiber that slows glucose absorption and supports gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria.
4. Less Processed
Coconut sugar undergoes minimal processing, retaining more of its natural nutrients, while white sugar is heavily refined and bleached.
Be Healthy With Coconut Sugar!
Coconut sugar stands out as a better alternative to white sugar for several reasons. Its lower glycemic index, nutritional content, minimal processing, and environmental sustainability make it a healthier and more eco-friendly choice.
While it’s important to consume any sugar in moderation, incorporating coconut sugar into your diet can offer a more nutritious and sustainable way to enjoy sweet flavors. Make sure the coconut sugar used comes from suppliers who use the best ingredients, such as Sari Coconut, which uses the best coconuts from Indonesia.
For those in the food and beverage industry, partnering with Sari Coconut guarantees a dependable source of high-quality coconut products. Reach out to Sari Coconut today to discover how they can be your premier coconut sugar supplier and support your business with top-tier coconut derivatives!
FAQ
Can I use coconut oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute coconut oil for butter in this recipe. Use the same amount of coconut oil (1 cup) and ensure it is in its solid form for the best results. Note that this will impart a slight coconut flavor to your cookies.
Why use coconut sugar in oatmeal cookies?
Coconut sugar adds a unique flavor profile to oatmeal cookies, enhancing their taste with a hint of caramel. It also has a lower glycemic index compared to white sugar, providing a more stable energy release.
Where can I buy coconut sugar for baking?
Coconut sugar is available in many health food stores, grocery stores, and online retailers. You can also purchase it from suppliers like Sari Coconut, known for their quality coconut products.
Are coconut sugar oatmeal cookies healthier?
Oatmeal cookies made with coconut sugar can be considered healthier compared to those made with refined sugars. Coconut sugar retains some nutrients from the coconut palm, such as potassium and magnesium, and has a lower glycemic index.
Do coconut sugar oatmeal cookies taste different from traditional ones?
Yes, coconut sugar adds a distinct caramel flavor to oatmeal cookies, giving them a richer taste compared to cookies made with traditional sugars. The flavor profile is often preferred for its depth and complexity.
