Low Sugar Applesauce Oatmeal Cookies are the kind of cozy, everyday treat that feels both nostalgic and modern at the same time. Because they rely on unsweetened applesauce instead of excess sugar, these cookies stay soft, comforting, and lightly sweet without tasting bland. At the same time, warm cinnamon and hearty oats create a familiar, bakery-style flavor that works for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.
Historically, applesauce has long been used in home baking as a natural sweetener and moisture booster, especially during times when sugar was scarce. Today, it remains a favorite trick for creating lighter, better-balanced baked goods. Additionally, oatmeal cookies have always been loved for their satisfying texture and comforting bite.
As a result, these cookies come together quickly, bake evenly, and cool into tender, soft centers with gently set edges. Whether you enjoy them warm or packed for later, they offer a feel-good treat that fits seamlessly into everyday life.
Recipe Yield: 14 cookies
INGREDIENTS
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp fine sea salt
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
¼ cup coconut sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prepare the oven and pan:
First, preheat oven to 350°F. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Mix dry ingredients:
Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Combine wet ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, applesauce, coconut sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and glossy.
4. Bring the dough together:
Next, add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Gently fold until just combined, forming a soft, slightly thick dough.
5. Portion and shape:
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dough onto prepared baking sheet. Lightly flatten each mound with the back of a spoon.
6. Bake and cool:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are set and centers look soft. Finally, cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack.
HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE
- Control Natural Sweetness: Because applesauce varies, choose unsweetened for best low-sugar balance and consistent flavor.
- Soft-Centered Texture: Slightly underbake the cookies, since they continue setting as they cool.
- Oat Choice Matters: Old-fashioned oats give the best chewy texture, while quick oats will soften too much.
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